Oregon Football meets Arizona State on Saturday night and both teams have something to play for.
Oregon 31, Arizona State, 29 FINAL
The Oregon Ducks are 5-1 at Autzen Stadium this season and will need the home field advantage against a solid passing game from Arizona State. The Sundevils also have key players up front on both sides of the ball. While the Sundevils Defense is young, the Offensive Line has been able to provide adequate protection to Quarterback Manny Wilkins. While Oregon at times has struggled on Third Down conversions, ASU ranked first in the Pac-12 this season which will bear watching under the lights.
Oregon Football has had major road struggles this season, but have played better at home. Playcalling has come into question, but the Ducks have been able to handle efficiency on the field in Eugene. While there have been injuries this season on both sides of the ball, the team knows struggle and game experience has played a big part.
The Oregon Running Game that started the season strong has been non-existent for the most part over the last month. CJ Verdell will likely start Saturday and is coming off an injury. Cyrus Habibi-Likio did not travel home with the team from Utah last weekend because of a knee contusion and fear of blood clots while flying. Mario Cristobal said both should be good to so against Arizona State.
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Running Back Travis Dye could be the player to watch on the ground for Oregon. Cristobal also said that ‘others’ may also see playing time against Arizona State. Tight End Spencer Webb could see the field and have an impact against ASU. With the new red shirt rule this season, players can participate in four games and maintain their ‘redshirt’ season.
Quarterback Justin Herbert will need to get the Oregon Ducks off to a better start than he has on the road. Oregon needs to take momentum early and get points on the board. The Oregon Run Game is ‘By Committee’ and Verdell can carry the load, but ASU has Eno Benjamin who will get his yards Saturday night. He as 12 touchdowns on the season and is averaging over 150 yards per game.
Arizona State needs to win against Oregon and win next weekend vs Arizona to win the Pac-12 South. With NFL Scouts and Holiday Bowl representatives in attendance, a good home showing could help the Ducks Bowl Destination.
Autzen Zoo will have Live Coverage starting at 6 pm. Oregon Football and Arizona State kickoff at 7:30 pm Pacific Time on Pac-12 Networks.