Oregon Football: 4 Possible Pitfalls Blocking a Return to the BCS

The Oregon Ducks remain one of the top college football programs in the country, despite the allegations and accusations swirling around the team.

They have their sights set on a return trip to a BCS game, but there are some potential obstacles to overcome in order to get there.

These next four pitfalls could possibly hinder Oregon on their way to a BCS game this season. 

An Injured Darron Thomas

While LaMichael James gets most of the ink, Darron Thomas is the most indispensable player for the Oregon Ducks.

He runs the offense with the skill of a maestro conductor, and if he missed any time due to injury, their fast-break offense would slow to a crawl. 

NCAA Sanctions

While USC, LSU and Georgia Tech have already been sanctioned, Oregon has joined Ohio State and Auburn in the NCAA investigative crosshairs.

Whether recruiting irregularities or player misconduct, Oregon will have to tread lightly to avoid the NCAA hammer coming down this season. 

Oregon O No Longer a Surprise

Head coach Chip Kelly has masterminded an Oregon offense that has taken college football by storm.

While most teams crumbled under Oregon's speed and execution, there were two teams who were successful in bottling up the Ducks (Cal and Auburn).

With an entire offseason to prepare and study film, opposing defensive coordinators could get a much better handle on slowing down this potent attack. 

The Pac-12 Is Here!

What's not to like with the new Pac-12? A great new TV contract, increased national exposure and more money blowing into each Pac-12 team.

However, with all this prosperity comes a seismic realignment; with two new divisions (North and South) and a conference championship game, Oregon's road to the BCS just got a whole lot longer.