The Oregon Ducks fell to the Utah Utes who had backup players step up in big situations for a 32-25 win.
Oregon Football went into the game against Utah with more experience on Offense with Justin Herbert, Dillon Mitchell, and Tony Brooks-James, but again bad play calling left the offense sputtering in a loss to the Utah Utes on the road Saturday night.
On Wednesday, Utah lost Starting Running Back Zach Moss for the season. The Utes lost Quarterback Tyler Huntley last weekend against Arizona State. Huntey broke his collarbone and is also out for the year. Justin Herbert threw for three touchdowns and gave full effort, as did Wide Receiver Dillon Mitchell who had a highlight-worthy over the shoulder catch in the end zone in the first half.
The Ducks have should have played better. Once again, Mitchell was the lone targeted receiver in key moments that we have already learned this season is a recipe for disaster. The road is not the place to try and throw to a covered Wide Receiver on third and long.
Oregon was again hurt on the ground by 232 yards by the Utah Run Game led by backup and the backups backups. Armand Shyne played like a starter to the tune of 174 yards on 26 carries. Freshman Quarterback Jason Shelley threw for over 260 yards and he ran for two touchdowns late helping seal the win for the Utah Utes.
Dillon Mitchell saw 8 catches for the Ducks good enough for 169 yards. He also scored twice. Shelley threw the ball to 7 different Wide Receivers and some of those catches kept drives alive. On Special Teams Utah Kicker Matt Gay hit a 55-yard field goal before the end of the first half.
With backups playing in key positions, the Utah Utes game planned perfectly for visiting Oregon and outplayed them in the end. Oregon returns home seeking their seventh win of the season on Senior Day next weekend at Autzen Stadium.
Oregon Football will entertain Arizona State. Gametime will be announced on Sunday.