Oregon/WSU Preview

Sunset Sail
Originally uploaded by pete4ducks.

Washington State has a more experienced roster than Colorado and certainly more offensive playmakers however all I see that meaning is that the Ducks win the fashion of around 58-24. The Cougars even if they bring an A effort under the Marshall Leubenstall passing attack doesn’t have the talent on the defensive line to disrupt Oregon’s rushing game. The Ducks should easily be able to rip off long runs all day and should again approach 400 yards rushing as a team whether or not LMJ or Darron Thomas play. I’ve really been happy with the play of the defense the last few games, they’ve been forcing three and outs which is just deadly against the Oregon offense. Cliff’s situation is obviously up in the air so look for the Cougs to try and challenge Mitchell, Gildon and Hill early and often. The Cougars can move the ball down the field through the air but have only real run well against less talented squads like UNLV and Colorado. Oregon’s depth is helping them cruise through this easier stretch of schedule and I think Chip is saving up James for the stretch run. They’ll only play Barner as long as they need him. Tra Carson and Ford should see many carries and with it being a home game I think we will see a good deal of play from walk-ons yet again. This should be an easy win , I’d be surprised if the Ducks struggle early like they did last year versus the Cougars up in Pullman.

Oregon/Colorado Review

Maui Tropical Plantation
Originally uploaded by pete4ducks.

I mean is there really much to discuss on this one other than Cliff Harris’ bonehead punt return (which really is meaningless aside from preventing the shutout). Oregon toyed with the Buffs and could have easily put up 60-60 points. Colorado is really feeling the effect of the roster turnover that Embree oversaw. This is a really young team that has no chance even playing on the same field as a team as loaded as Oregon. The Ducks showed great depth at both QB and running back and the first quarter brought back memories of last year’s New Mexico game. Colorado looks like they are about as good as the 2009 Cougs which is not good at all. I’ll check back in two years to see how this team has changed but I’d be shocked if they aren’t the #6 team in the Pac 12 South until 2013 at the earliest. Helmet stickers to Josh Kaddu who had a Charles Jefferson versus Lincoln first half and to Bryan Bennett who showed off both a strong arm and good running ability. Back to Autzen for the Cougs before the season gets a lot harder (well maybe not too sure about that Husky run defense) in Seattle on November 5th.