Pac-12 Football 2017: 5 teams that will be on upset alert in Week 4
By Zach Bigalke
After a rough 4-8 campaign in 2016, Oregon looks like its old self again. The Ducks are back in the AP Top 25 at No. 24, and they head to Tempe as more than a two-touchdown favorite against Arizona State. After winning their first three games of the year, though, the Ducks must beware their trip to the Territorial State.
Oregon has won 10 straight against the Sun Devils, and traditionally they have struggled more in Tucson than in Tempe. Furthermore, Arizona State has already lost twice, and is nearly 0-3 after barely taking down New Mexico State in the season opener. Given that context, it seems like the point spread might be set low.
One thing going in Arizona State’s favor, though, is the fact that they have been great at protecting the football this year. The Sun Devils are giving up less than one turnover per game on offense. Meanwhile, on defense the Arizona State front seven is among the national leaders in sacks and tackles for loss. A young Ducks offensive line could have their hands full on Saturday.
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Over the past few years, Oregon has seen long winning streaks fall against both Washington and Oregon State. As they dive into Pac-12 play, they will need to beware the threat that the Sun Devils present. Beating the spread won’t be as easy as it may seem, and Willie Taggart’s team is at risk of taking its first loss of the season if it fails to take the challenge as seriously as required.