Oregon Ducks at Boise State Broncos: Preview, Part Two

(Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images)

Part Two: Oregon Offense Vs. Boise State Defense

In the Trenches

The Ducks’ offensive line is a huge question mark this year. Their only two returning starters were out with injuries during the spring. They should be healthy come fall camp, but there is still uncertainty about who will start where on the line.

The Broncos lose one of their best defensive ends in recent years in Mike T. Williams but have another stud in Ryan Winterswyk returning. The rest of the line is solid and deep and includes Michael Atkinson, a 320-pound freshman who played fullback in high school.

Advantage: Boise State

Rushing

Oregon has one of the most dangerous rushing attacks in the nation behind dual-threat quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and RB LeGarrette Blount. Even if the offensive line has problems, these two could really cause problems for any defense.

Junior Darrell Acrey is the lone returner for the Broncos’ young linebacking corps. They will get much needed help from S Jeron Johnson, but the key to stopping Oregon’s running game is going to be the defensive line.

Advantage: Oregon

Passing

Masoli’s arm has improved since last year, and most of the components of coach Chip Kelly’s spread offense are back, including up-and-coming receiver Jamere Holland. With the balance of the running game, these receivers could put up big numbers and score a lot of points for the Ducks.

Boise State returns all four starters in the secondary, led by senior All-American CB Kyle Wilson. The chemistry they have developed from last season and through the spring will help them the cover the whole field, which is exactly what they will need to do.

Advantage: Push

Boise State’s success on defense in last year’s game was due mostly to the fact that the Ducks were one-dimensional. Oregon’s offense this year will be much different and will be a tough test for this defense.

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