ScoopDuck Roundtable: Surprise Storyline vs Oregon State
It’s Monday so we are gearing up to close the door on the Boise State win and look ahead. Everyone in the state of Oregon is aware of what game is being played this Saturday in Corvallis.
The 2-0 Beavers host the 2-0 Ducks in what used to be widely known as the Civil War. Which is still mostly the case around the valley and the state.
This game was able to continue its annual tradition with both schools making an effort to play. Even though it’s no longer the last game of the year, it’s still going to be a big one.
Here are our predictions for surprise storylines to come from this game.
Linden Hile: Beavs Gash Oregon’s Run D
Facing an opponent that prides itself on running the ball and playing hard in the trenches, Oregon’s defensive line will be put to the test against Oregon State this weekend. Unfortunately for the Ducks, I think the Beavers’ offensive line will have a strong performance and pave the way for a strong ground game in the Civil War.
I don’t know how much of a surprise this would really be given the group’s performance containing Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty last weekend, but Oregon State has the backfield depth to really lean on Oregon’s defensive line. Give me the Beavers to have a 100-yard rusher and consistently move the ball on the ground.
Max Torres: Jordan James Breaks 150 rushing yards
James has rushed for 95 and 105 rushing yards to start the year, and there’s clearly a lot of meat left on the bone given the offensive line struggles to start the year and that he hasn’t broken 20 carries yet. I think Stein wants to run this offense through him and he could be in line for a big game on Saturday with a rivalry matchup against the Beavers. The catch here is Poncho Laloulu needs to be the starting center, and stay there for however long this game is close to ensure the offensive line is at its best and paving the way for James with great blocks.
Collin King: Jay Harris or Jayden Limar will run for close to 50 yards
So far I’ve been off on both of my surprise storyline picks, but this is another one that I strongly believe could happen. To this point neither Jay Harris nor Jayden Limar have recorded a carry yet, and they are definitely due for one now. Noah Whittington has at times looked really good, and at others not so great, so for Oregon why not give a few carries to the other backs?
Jhop: Pass Game Erupts for Oregon
I think we have seen the tale of two passing offenses from Oregon so far. A dink and dunk effort vs Idaho and much more explosive plays vs Boise State. Now it’s time for Oregon to put it all together and get a mix of both. While the offensive line continues to find its rhythm, Gabriel has enough weapons out wide to be deadly. I think Oregon is forced to lean on it in Corvallis this weekend so expect Gabriel to put up over 350 yards in the air.
FWIW, my prediction last week was the return of explosive plays.
