Oregon Football: Ducks Look To Finish Strong vs Boise State
Oregon Football faces Boise State with Head Coach Mario Cristobal in the Las Vegas Bowl.
We all remember the last time that Oregon met Boise State in Football. This time is clearly different. The Oregon Ducks enter the game coming off a big win over in-state rival Oregon State and bring an Offense that is capable of putting up 50+ points a game behind Quarterback Justin Herbert. Some player decisions have been made the last two days with Offensive Lineman Tyrell Crosby suiting up for the Las Vegas Bowl, Royce Freeman will not play in the game.
Head Coach Mario Cristobal understands the decision that Freeman had to make, but the game is not worth the risk of injury for a player looking to work his way into the Top 50 of the NFL Draft. His four seasons at Oregon have been filled with great memories. Kani Benoit will likely get the start vs Boise State.
Boise State, like Oregon, has shown they can put up points this season. The Broncos average 32 points per game. The Oregon Defense has a different look and a new motivation under Defensive Coordinator Jim Leavitt. The Ducks held Oregon State to just 10 points on Offense. Arizona managed 28 points. Troy Dye and Jalen Jelks are a force from the middle of the line and Arrion Springs leads the Pac-12 in protecting his side of the field.
For the Oregon Ducks, this game will be the first with Mario Cristobal as Head Coach. It could show they style of play he will have for this team next season. One key piece in Royce Freeman will be on the sideline but expect youth to play a big role Saturday. While Seniors will have their opportunity, I expect backups to also see playing time. Running Back Darrian Felix could have a big day.
The Oregon Ducks have a lot on the line Saturday. It is a chance to not only be in the National Spotlight but also pick up a key eighth win of the season doubling a 4-8 season from a year ago. The momentum has already had a big push on recruiting. A win will also put Oregon in range of starting 2018 with a ranking. Oregon will also be led by a Heisman Candidate at Quarterback next season under Justin Herbert.
For Boise State, an 11th win is at stake. Quarterback Brett Rypien has thrown for over 2500 yards this season to go with 14 touchdowns. Running Back Alexander Mattison leads the Broncos on the ground with over 1000 yards and 12 touchdowns. Ryan Wolpin and Montell Cozart have four touchdowns each.
Cedrick Wilson is the player to watch. The Broncos Wide Receiver leads five players in double-figure receiving. He has just under 1300 yards through the air in 2017. The Oregon Defense will have a busy day and will look to contain Rypien in the pocket. Troy Dye could have a big day inside for the Ducks Defense.
Next: Freeman, Crosby Decide On Las Vegas Bowl
Oregon and Boise State kickoff at 12:30 pm Pacific Time on ABC.