Oregon Ducks at Boise State Broncos: Preview, Part One

In my opinion, it's never too early too speculate. And with game day less than 10 weeks away, it's time to really look at how this game is going to turn out. Part one of this preview will feature the Boise State offense and the Oregon defense. Part two will feature their respective counterparts. And part three, if I get to it, will include anything else.

Part One: Boise State Offense vs. Oregon Defense

In the Trenches

The Broncos offensive line is still the biggest question mark for the Broncos' offense this year. The good news is it is a smaller question mark than last year. Last year’s team returned only one starter from 2007 and used more than 10 different combinations during the season. The lack of experience last year will pay off this year—three starters return along with four others who have seen some playing time.

Oregon’s defensive line seems to be in the same state Boise State’s offensive line was last season. They only have one returning starter, DE Will Tukuafu, but the others have showed some promise. The question is what they can do without any real game experience.

Advantage: BSU

Rushing

All of Boise will miss the legendary Ian Johnson, but the Broncos' running game won’t miss a beat with juniors Jeremy Avery and D.J. Harper returning. The improved offensive line should open up more holes and provide more opportunities for them to get in the open and do their work.

Oregon’s linebackers should improve from last year, but without much of defensive line in front of them, they could have their hands full keeping up with the Bronco running backs.

Advantage: BSU

Passing

This will be one of the most interesting matchups of the game. Last year freshman QB Kellen Moore exceeded all expectations by picking apart a very good Oregon secondary. Can he do it again this year without star WR Jeremy Childs or the versatility of Vinny Peretta? There are plenty of players who can step into the go to receiver role this year, namely juniors Titus Young and Austin Pettis. Not to mention Moore’s younger brother, Kirby, who will be a freshman this year.

Causing problems for Moore will be CB Walter Thurmond, who could be the best defensive back in the Pac-10. Seniors T.J. Ward and Willie Glasper add experience to a deep secondary that will be trying to confuse Boise State’s passing attack the entire game.

Advantage: Push

The Boise State offense should be able to move the ball well against Oregon, and if they can avoid costly mistakes, they could put up quite a few points. But the question is, can they score enough to pull off the win?

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