PLAYERS TO WATCH
–NT Jordon Scott will have to play much bigger than his 6-foot-1, 329-pound frame if the Ducks want to leave Utah with a win. It’s no secret that with a backup quarterback running the offense, the Utes will turn to running back Zack Moss and a physical offensive line for success. That means Scott must be the neutralizing force to counteract Utah’s power.
–OL Calvin Throckmorton has not allowed a sack in his last 27 games, serving as a steady power on the Ducks’ offensive line. With center Jake Hanson suspended for the first half against Utah, Throckmorton’s presence, experience and communication will be imperative going up against a Utes defense surrendering just 100 rushing yards per game. The Ducks found offensive success last week by getting back to their roots and running the ball; Throckmorton will be vital if they’re to have any success in the trenches this week.
–S Ugochukwu Amadi has emerged as a versatile playmaker during his senior season. He is the only player in the country with a pick-six and a punt return for a touchdown on the season. He averages 24.3 yards per punt return, and his three interceptions is tied for second in the Pac-12.
–QB Justin Herbert has struggled on the road compared to being at home. At Autzen, Herbert possesses a 164.5 passer rating and averages 275.3 passing yards per game. On the road, he holds a 119.9 passer rating while being held to 227.0 yards per game.
SERIES HISTORY: Oregon leads 22-9. The Ducks own a two-game winning streak in the series — a dramatic come-from-behind victory two years ago and last year’s dominating win in Eugene.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “Overall, more positive than anything and certainly some good momentum as we prepare for a game against, in our opinion, arguably one of the most physical teams (not just) in the conference, but the country.” — Oregon head coach Mario Cristobal, looking ahead to Utah after last week’s 42-21 victory over UCLA.
