Oregon needs to use their strength in the Run Game and growing Defensive momentum against Washington.
The strength for Oregon Football in their wins this season has been the Running Game. The second half against Utah showed the power of what Coach Donte Pimpleton has with the Ducks, led by Royce Freeman, who when he is healthy can be as good as anyone in the country. Tony Brooks-James and Kani Benoit provide good change of pace, and style and Oregon will need that to find success on Saturday night against Washington.
Oregon also has another threat in Braxton Burmeister who can use his feet effectively. He scored both touchdowns against UCLA before halftime a few weeks ago. The passing game clearly is not the same without usual Starter Justin Herbert playing, but I expect him to get in the game Saturday. He may not start, but could play a big role for the Ducks.
Expect the names we know for Oregon to get into the game. Charles Nelson, Taj Griffin, and Jacob Breeland should all get touches. Some Ducks have been nursing injuries and while they have played, have seemed ineffective. Nelson appears to be close to 100 percent after watching him in practice this week. He brought in some passes from, of all people, Herbert. Last weekend he had an acrobatic style save on the field to throw the first touchdown of his career.
The 2017 Oregon Defense is NOT the same as the 2016 Oregon Defense. Last season there were games that were losses because the motivation was lost throughout the game. This season the Oregon D has played the field position game well, limiting opponents to field goal attempts and giving up less touchdowns. They have stood tall on third down to force the opposition to punt.
More importantly they remember last season. They have reminders everyday in the weight room and coaches don’t have to say too much.
Next: Offensive Success vs Washington Depends On QB, Run Game
Autzen Zoo will have Live Coverage leading up to kickoff starting at 6:30 pm Pacific Time. Oregon and Washington kickoff at 7 pm PT on Fox Sports 1.