Stanford vs. Oregon: Halftime Observations for the Ducks

Stanford vs. Oregon is a game with monumental repercussions and could very well decide who ends up playing at the national championship game. With a huge upset in the Top Five already today—in TCU over Boise State—the winner of tonight's game could vault to the top of the BCS picture.

The indisputable No. 1 QB prospect in the country, Stanford's Andrew Luck, is not having the first half that most expected from him. Oregon is better known for their jerseys and offense, but their defense has been able to shut down Stanford's quarterback—the same QB NFL scouts have been drooling over for the last three years. 

The Ducks' offense hasn't been able to get rolling like it's capable of doing. Still, Darron Thomas was able to connect on a four-yard touchdown pass to Lavasier Tuinei. After a successful two-point conversion, the Ducks leapt to an 8-0 lead. 

As both teams head into the locker room, let's take a look at a few things the Ducks need to do to put this game away and get back in the championship picture. 

LaMichael James had only 12 yards on his first seven rushes. On his eighth, he made Stanford pay with a 58-yard dash to the end zone during which he was left virtually untouched.

The Stanford defense had shown how effective it could be up until that point. James is the X-factor going forward—he's proven he only needs one touch to break open the game. If Oregon can get another ridiculous run out of him in the second half, their win probability goes way up. 

This game hasn't been a pretty one, but Oregon is quickly proving that you don't have to put four successful quarters together to get a win.

If Oregon can keep the game close, they can rely on a big play to take down Stanford. Don't be surprised to see the Ducks go off for another long touchdown or two.