This Saturday will be a defining moment for the Ducks' postseason hopes. A struggling UCLA team (2-3, 1-1) comes to Autzen Stadium searching to regain their composure, and prove to the nation that the Pac-10 is not just "USC and the Nine Dwarfs".
When one compares these two teams, many similarities appear. Both Oregon and UCLA have had trouble at the QB position the past two years, with each squad losing their top 2 quarterbacks to injury. Oregon however, is no longer crippled offensively. Justin Roper, atop the depth chart, will be ready to play this weekend, as he missed a combined 13 quarters of play with a partially torn MCL and the flu.
So what can we expect from this Ducks team, after being humbled by an amazing UCLA squad last weekend? Well, let's look into the facets of each team.
OREGON DUCKS OFFENSE:
Oregon's offense is currently ranked 11th in the nation, and second in the Pac-10 with 41.2 ppg. The passing game is not too stellar, evidenced by the early season injury to QB Justin Roper, Oregon's No.1 QB. Oregon's passing attack is ranked 56th in the nation at 215.7 ypg. QB Jeremiah Masoli has been the most productive and the most efficient of the Oregon quarterbacks, throwing for 537 yards and a 132.9 rating. The highlight of Oregon's offense, is their rushing attack, currently ranked 7th in the nation, 1st in the Pac-10, with 267.2 ypg. Senior SB Jeremiah Johnson and Sophomore PB LeGarrette Blount lead the way for the Ducks.
Whether Roper or Masoli starts in the game, either QB will have a receiving corps with bountiful talent to throw to. Senior Jaison Williams, Juniors Ed Dickson and Terrence Scott, and Sophomore Jeff Mahel anchor this deep receiving corps. Dickson and Williams provide the biggest targets, while Scott provides yet another tailback to use on trick plays, like WR reverses or end-around sweeps.
UCLA BRIUNS OFFENSE:
The Bruins' offense is currently ranked 100th in the nation, and ninth in the Pac-10 with 19.2 ppg. UCLA has had quarterback troubles of their own, and are down to their third string quarterback. UCLA's passing game is ranked 87th in the nation with 189 ypg, and their running game is ranked 110th in the nation at 97 ypg. UCLA has played relatively well at home, but has severely struggled on the road.
OREGON DUCKS DEFENSE:
Oregon's pass defense is currently ranked 110th in the nation. YIKES! The biggest reason for this is the lack of maturity when it comes to the play action pass. Oregon knows that it is their weakness, do not worry. Oregon will fix it, trust me.
The Duck's running defense has been relatively good, except for the USC game, but that is very understandible, since USC has what, three All-American caliber running backs at their disposal?
UCLA BRUINS DEFENSE:
UCLA has had much trouble on the defensive side of the ball. This game will be the decider for both teams' bowl hopes.
FINAL VERDICT:
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