The Oregon Ducks need to start the process of fixing a broken Offense, which starts with the Running Game vs Stanford.
Oregon Football started the 2017 season on a high note before losing Quarterback Justin Herbert vs Cal and stumbling last weekend against Washington State. The Oregon Defense has been much better up front and in the secondary than they were a season ago and the Offensive Strength has been the Running Game with a bevy of Running Backs that start with Royce Freeman.
This week it is key for Oregon Football to use the ground game early and often. The Cardinal will be playing the first half without two key Defenders, both suspended for the first 30 minutes after targeting penalties last weekend. Royce Freeman was considered an early Heisman Contender this season, but an injury against Cal has derailed his chances somewhat. There will be a battle between Freeman and Stanford Running Back Bryce Love, and he needs to be contained.
Much like the Washington State Defense last week, the Oregon Defense will need to stack the box against Love, and at least contain his runs if not pick up tackles for loss. Third down will be a key spot and the Oregon D has stepped up in key situations this season and forced a punt. The Defense is getting stronger and the battle with a Jim Leavitt Defense vs the last two seasons will be more physical.
Quarterback play will be key for the Oregon Ducks. Entering the Cal game, Oregon had the 7th best Offensive Scoring Efficiency in the Nation. After the loss against WSU, the team dropped to 18th. Stanford has had a Top 5 Scoring Efficiency all season, but both Defenses rank just outside the Top 50 in Scoring Efficiency.
Braxton Burmeister, if he earns his second start, brings something to the table that Taylor Alie does not. A fresh excitement. The kid has zip on his passes and is the future of Oregon Football. He can also throw on the run, something that we have not seen Herbert do very much. With Alie available this week it is not known who will get the start.
Next: College Football Matrix: Stanford Defense Is Not Very Good
Autzen Zoo will have Live Coverage starting at 7:30pm Pacfiic Time. Oregon Football meets Stanford on the farm Saturday night at 8pm PT on Fox Sports 1