The Oregon Ducks head into Saturday's game against Northwestern looking to play the spoiler role as the season has taken a turn. Oregon has underwhelmed, but with No. 20 Northwestern coming to Eugene, the Ducks can look to crush their hopes of making the College Football Playoff, and build some momentum before the calendar turns.
On one sideline, Oregon will have a new offensive coordinator after firing Drew Mehringer, while on the other sideline, Chip Kelly will be back in Eugene. The Big Ten has beaten up on each other, and this game could provide even more chaos in a jam-packed race for the conference championship.
Oregon Ducks game day guide: Odds, weather, injury updates, and more
Northwestern Vs Oregon odds
While Northwestern is the ranked team in this matchup, the odds don't reflect the Wildcats being the favorite. As of Saturday Morning, the Ducks are 3.5-point favorites over the Wildcats (-110), according to FanDuel Sportsbook. Oregon is currently -166 favorites to win the game, while Northwestern is a +138 underdog. The total is set at 47.5 points (Over -106, Under -114).
All odds and lines are subject to change.
Eugene, Oregon weather forecast for Saturday
Fans attending the game and tailgating in Eugene will be treated to typical fall weather, with temperatures in the mid-40s early in the morning, peaking at 49 degrees when the game kicks off. Wind shouldn't be a factor with projected speeds of just 2-4 MPH, while there's just a 10% chance of rain in the late afternoon.
Injury Updates
Injuries have been one of the big stories surrounding the Oregon Ducks, and that theme continued with Dante Moore being ruled out for the season. The biggest news came on Friday Night when freshman wide receiver Messiah Hampton went from unlisted to out for the game with the news of his arrest. The Wildcats have much better injury news with tight end Luke Dehnicke returning from injury after he got off to an impressive start to the season.
Final predictions for Northwestern vs. Oregon
Chip Kelly's scheme has created issues for every defense Northwestern has played, and with his return to Eugene, everyone can expect for him to throw the kitchen sink at the Ducks. The good news for Oregon is that the defense has been incredibly strong in Big Ten play, and the defensive line could create enough pressure to blow up some of the exotic plays.
How the Oregon offense looks with a change at offensive coordinator is going to determine this game, as the defense has given the unit plenty of chances to weather the storm with Dante Moore out. Jay Johnson should have a better feel for his playcalling experience, and he may finally lean on the running game, whereas Drew Mehringer was trying to force the passing attack into finding success.
If Oregon is going to win, the Ducks are going to have to do so by winning ugly, and with where the team is they likely can't afford for this game to become a track meet.
- Final score: Oregon 24 - Northwestern 20
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