2. Turnovers nearly cost the Ducks a win
Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers. Oregon has been average on the season in terms of turnover margin, sitting in the nation’s top-50 range with a positive .30 mark per game. That wasn’t the case against Arizona State as the Sun Devils forced four to the Ducks’ one.
The first crucial turnover was a pick thrown by Justin Herbert as the Ducks were driving, up 21-6, with the first half closing down. A 28-6 lead at the half would have likely sealed the deal early on, but Herbert’s interception was returned 50 yards to Oregon’s 22-yard line and the Sun Devils scored on the next play to make it 21-13.
The next interception happened with less than five minutes in the game and the Ducks up 31-29. That wasn’t returned, but it still gave Arizona State a shot to win the game. However, they fumbled it on the ensuing drive.
Two more lost fumbles led to Arizona State points and nearly stole a win right out of the Ducks’ grasp. This team must be better moving forward into the final week and bowl season.