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Oregon Ducks vs Washington: Three Things I’ll Be Watching

By Justin Phillips

Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Browning (3) throws a pass against the Stanford Cardinal during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Browning (3) throws a pass against the Stanford Cardinal during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 24, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks linebacker Troy Dye (35) and Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Steven Montez (12) fight for the ball in the first half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 24, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks linebacker Troy Dye (35) and Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Steven Montez (12) fight for the ball in the first half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports /

The Oregon Ducks most experienced Linebacker Johnny Ragin left on a cart against Washington State with a large cast. This week he was seen with a boot and smaller cast and is expected to miss the rest of the season. The Ducks will have Freshman Troy Dye back in the middle. The Defense need to play disciplined and stay in their lanes against Washington.

If the Ducks can land a few big plays and be in the right place at the right time and help the Oregon Offense, it could be the making of an ESPN Classic, or even better the making of another Legend making moment for an Oregon Athlete. Right now, a ‘Kenny Wheaton’ moment may not save the season. It will give an identity to a Defense that right now lacks not just an identity but a proven playmaker.

Stepping up on Saturday for Oregon is not just a matter of Pride, but a Requirement. The Seniors on the team have passed down from several generations of Duck Football what appears to be a tradition that may end. Beating Washington has been a right of passage for 12 straight seasons. Stepping Up may not be enough against this talented Cougars team, but Oregon needs their best foot forward and play disciplined football.

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