The numbers may not jump off the page after two teams that played rather lackluster non-conference games, but one thing is clear about Oregon and Stanford.
According to Dave Bartoo from the College Football Matrix, Oregon needs to have a strong first half of football and execution, “if the game is close at halftime, the game could go either way.” The numbers give Oregon Football a slight advantage in the second quarter that could tell the tale of the game.
The Ducks Offensive Efficiency in the second quarter is third best in the nation. The first quarter, Oregon Football ranks in the top 20 at 18th. Despite some struggles in the game vs San Jose State, Oregon starts out fast. The second half numbers don’t mean much for either team since throughout the non-conference slate most games were over by halftime with players gaining experience.
Bartoo says this is a very important aspect for both sides. In Game Experience means a big building or tearing down of Confidence entering Pac-12 play. For players who have been here before like Justin Hollins and Ugo Amadi, the confidence cannot be higher entering this game against Stanford.
While the Oregon Ducks numbers on Offense are solid, Stanford starts out slow. Offensively in the first quarter, they rank 119 and improve to 40th in the second and third quarters respectively. Of course, the Defensive numbers for Stanford is where they shine.
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The Stanford Cardinal Defense through quarters stiffens in the second and third quarters in 2018. They start the game ranked 18th Nationally. The second quarter they lead the nation in not allowing opponents to score. The third quarter has them ranked third in the nation against the opposition. The Oregon Ducks strongest Defensive Quarter is the first ranking 19th nationally followed by 41st in the second quarter.
A further breakdown with Starters playing the full game has Oregon Football winning the game according to the College Football Matrix. The Ducks strongest quarter is the second before adjustments are made at halftime. Despite the numbers, the game will still come down to Bryce Love vs Justin Herbert as it should. Oregon has allowed just under two yards per carry on running plays through their first three games.
A Special Teams play could be the difference in the game. Bartoo added that Stanford is among five teams in the Pac-12 that are lowest in scoring efficiency after three games this season with Oregon ranking higher. The Ducks sit at third in the nation and 5th in Power 5 Conference rankings for Offensive Efficiency.
Autzen Zoo will have Live Pregame Coverage starting at 4 pm Pacific Time. Oregon Football meets Stanford on Saturday at 5 pm on ABC.
Statistical Analysis provided by Dave Bartoo from The College Football Matrix