Though they may be grateful, the Badgers could be dead when they trip to Autzen Stadium Saturday night, a 4:30 p.m. game on FS1.
The betting line for the matchup of 2-5 Wisconsin against No. 6, 6-1 Oregon has already moved down a point to the Ducks -33.5. The over/under has shifted from 42.5 at open to 44.5, suggesting a higher-scoring game.
Higher scoring won't be good for Luke Fickell's Badgers, who've lost five in a row and four straight to start Big Ten play. They average 13.3 points a game, worst in the league by two scores. The Ducks lead the conference in scoring at 44.1.
It's a decent defense that gives up just under 6.0 yards per play, but typically they spend too much time on the field. Last night Oregon head coach Dan Lanning said, "It's probably one of the best defenses when it comes to disguise. What it looks like pre-snap is different than what it looks like post-snap. They do a great job of stopping the run, right? They game-plan your runs really well. I think that's a big piece of it."
"They make sure to get the extra hat where necessary and they do a good job of avoiding explosive plays. It's really sound. They're difficult. They pitch different looks at you. There's different guys who can pressure, unconventional pressures at times, which makes it a real challenge."
Lanning began by saying that the game represented another great opportunity for the Ducks to elevate their standard. That's true, particularly for Dante Moore as every start brings him further along in his development, particularly in recognizing coverage disguises and pressure.