When facing a big-time opponent like Oregon, it feels like just about everyone who sees the field could be called out as a player to watch. There may be some names you might have expected to see me list that may not be listed below, so feel free to pop off in the comments section […]
When facing a big-time opponent like Oregon, it feels like just about everyone who sees the field could be called out as a player to watch. There may be some names you might have expected to see me list that may not be listed below, so feel free to pop off in the comments section about it. With that said, here’s who I’m keeping an eye out for in tomorrow’s night White Out clash:
Drew Allar – It feels like one of, if not the main reason that those who are picking Oregon to win give out is pointing out Drew Allar’s inconsistent performance so far this season, with his 58% completion rate. Drew doesn’t need to light the world on fire with 250-plus passing yards and three touchdowns, but he just needs to be consistent, turnover-free, and yes, “chuck it deep” when the opportunity to do so is there.
Kaytron Allen/Nicholas Singleton – What will the ratio of carries between the two running backs look like? Many fans have been clamoring for Allen to get the majority of the carries with Singleton coming in to provide a fresh set of legs, but we shall see tomorrow night. I’m really curious to see how Andy Kotelnicki utilizes Singleton in ways other than just running him, as he has shown the ability to be a weapon in the passing attack (see Nick’s game-tying TD at USC last year for such an example).
Trebor Peña – Trebor has not only emerged as one of Drew’s favorite passing targets, but he’s also become someone that Kotelnicki likes to utilize on gadget plays such as jet sweeps. I would definitely can keep an eye out for some type of misdirection or trick play involving him tomorrow night.
Luke Reynolds – We’ve seen Luke’s targets and receptions gradually increase over the first few games and while nobody is mistaking him for Tyler Warren just yet, he’s showcasing similar traits with the catching ability, as well as the ability to pick up serious yards after the catch. Although it hasn’t been shown at all in any games thus far, I wouldn’t rule out the possibility of a “Wild Luke” formation where he takes a snap from under center against the Ducks.
The Offensive Line – After a “meh” start to the season, the O-line has steadily improved over the course of the first few games. While Oregon boasts a Top 10 scoring defense, they do have some exploitable weaknesses when it comes to rushing defense and tackles for loss, where they rank outside the Top 50 in both categories. If this unit is able to exploit those weaknesses, it should lead to a good night for the run game, which will be absolutely critical, as it will make Drew and the passing game’s life easier.
Zane Durant – We’ve seen Dani Dennis-Sutton and Chaz Coleman wreak havoc already for the defensive line, but Zane has been quiet at least, from a stat sheet perspective. Make no mistake, he has been a very integral part of why the unit has looked as dominant as it has, so far, with him drawing double teams from the overmatched opponents PSU has faced. I’d expect less double-teaming from Oregon, so this should allow more opportunities for Zane to remind the rest of the country that yes, he still exists, and is a force to be reckoned with.
Amare Campbell/Tony Rojas – The starting linebacker duo has been pretty solid thus far, with Rojas absolutely going off against Villanova to the tune of a couple of sacks. They will both need to continue stepping up their game, as they will be instrumental in not allowing short pass plays to turn into explosive ones, as well as containing the Oregon run game. I would also anticipate them being called upon to blitz at times as well, as this is not an opponent you can simply rush your four D-linemen at all and expect to generate a ton of pressure.
The Secondary – Let’s face it, this unit has only been tested in bits and pieces so far, but that will change tomorrow night when they have to defend against the likes of Dakorien Moore, Malik Benson, and Kenyon Sadiq. The back seven got torched for 283 yards and four TD’s by the Ducks in last year’s Big Ten Championship Game, and I can guarantee you the returning secondary players haven’t forgotten about it. The secondary’s ability to limit the Ducks in explosive pass plays will perhaps be the most critical aspect of tomorrow night’s showdown.
Special Teams – Gabe Nwosu’s punting ability needs to continue being on point, as his ability to flip the field and force Oregon to have to march 80-plus yards down the field to reach the end zone will be absolutely clutch in what is expected to be a tight ball game throughout. Ryan Barker also needs to continue being money from inside of 50 yards on his field goal attempts, and an explosive punt or kick return from Devonte Ross or King Mack would highly beneficial, too.
Category: General Sports
