Oregon Football: 3 takeaways from comeback win over Washington State
By John Scimeca
3. Oregon’s offensive line is for real
In the third quarter alone, the Ducks rushed for 123 yards (compared to 16 for the Cougars) and had nine first downs (one for Washington State). Their sole touchdown of the period put the Ducks ahead, 21-19, heading in to the fourth quarter.
Oregon finished with 269 rushing yards and 7.5 yards per rush for the game. If the game’s outcome was ever in doubt, it was quickly put to rest for any Ducks fans by watching the beefy guys up front get a strong push. CJ Verdell, the Ducks’ top back tonight, rushed for 118 yards on 18 carries, good for 6.6 yards per carry.
Despite turning the ball over three times (an unfortunate trend that continued from their first game), the Ducks clawed their way back behind the dominant offensive line.
Oregon quarterback Tyler Shough finished with 312 passing yards, four touchdowns, and one interception in the victory. He did not appear to be too rushed by the Cougars defense throughout the game, and he did not flinch after the early turnovers.