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Oregon Football: 3 things I’d like to see vs. Arizona in Week 4

By Connor Muldowney

Oregon's CJ Verdell, center, rushes against Stony Brook during the first quarter.Eug 091821 Oregonfb 07
Oregon's CJ Verdell, center, rushes against Stony Brook during the first quarter.Eug 091821 Oregonfb 07 /
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Sep 18, 2021; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks running back CJ Verdell (7) picks up a first down during the first half against the Stony Brook Seawolves at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2021; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks running back CJ Verdell (7) picks up a first down during the first half against the Stony Brook Seawolves at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports /

2. CJ Verdell getting a bulk of the carries

We saw Travis Dye get a good chunk of carries last week and he fared well against Stony Brook, but there’s no question, CJ Verdell is the team’s No. 1 running back and he needs to be treated as such.

We need to see Verdell getting a bulk of the carries on Saturday night. Verdell has received over 10 carries in each game thus far and he’s made the most of them, averaging 5.9 yards per carry, totaling nearly 300 yards and three touchdowns. He also has eight receptions for 70 yards and two more scores. On the year, he’s been one of the most productive players on the roster.

Oregon needs to make sure Verdell touches the ball a ton and gets physically ready for the bulk of Pac-12 play. Sure, Arizona’s defense won’t be able to slow him as much as other teams in the Pac-12, but getting him some confidence against a familiar foe is important.

It’s time to get Verdell revved up for the heart of conference play because he could be the key to a few victories this year.

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