Stanford Football: 3 Biggest Keys to Beating Oregon

Last week may have been the “Game of the Century,” but this week has a game that could be just as important for this year’s BCS race.

Oregon travels to California to take on the Stanford Cardinals led by Andrew Luck. He is the Heisman favorite and will undoubtedly be the top pick in the NFL Draft.

But there is a lot more to a game than just one player. Here are the three big things Stanford needs to do in order to beat the Ducks and remain perfect on the season.

Dominate the Trenches

Between Luck’s fast throwing motion and the bulk of the offensive linemen, Stanford has allowed fewer sacks than anyone else in the country. The Cardinals are also averaging over three sacks and seven tackles for a loss per game. The linemen have also paved the way for the 17th best rushing attack.

But it won’t be easy to beat out Oregon in the trenches. The Ducks have nearly the same amount of sacks and tackles for a loss, ranked just behind Stanford in sacks allowed and have the fifth best rushing attack.

Whoever wins this battle will likely win the game.

Make Special Teams a Non-Factor

Oregon is the best punting team in the country and their return men Kenjon Barner and De’Anthony Thomas are two of the most electrifying players in the game.

Stanford has had solid returns this season but they are only getting 35.3 yards out of every punt, which is nine yards less than the Ducks.

At the very least, the Cardinals will need to make Oregon’s special teams a non-factor or possibly get a big play out of one of their return men.

Prevent the Big Play

Oregon ranks dead last in time of possession and holds the ball for nearly two minutes less than the next closest team. Their offense is fast and it leaves opponents susceptible to the big play.

Stanford is built more on ball control and efficiency, so not only will they have to score on most of their drives, but they’ll also have to prevent Oregon from destroying them deep. Playing sound coverage and assignment football is a must in order for the Cardinals to win this game.