Oregon Football: 3 takeaways from comeback win over Washington State

Nov 14, 2020; Pullman, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Travis Dye (26) and Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Chris Randazzo (79) celebrate a touchdown against the Washington State Cougars in the second half at Martin Stadium. Oregon won 43-29. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2020; Pullman, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Travis Dye (26) and Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Chris Randazzo (79) celebrate a touchdown against the Washington State Cougars in the second half at Martin Stadium. Oregon won 43-29. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /
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PULLMAN, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 14: CJ Verdell #7 of the Oregon Ducks is tackled by Brennan Jackson #80 of the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Martin Stadium on November 14, 2020 in Pullman, Washington. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images)
PULLMAN, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 14: CJ Verdell #7 of the Oregon Ducks is tackled by Brennan Jackson #80 of the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Martin Stadium on November 14, 2020 in Pullman, Washington. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images) /

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.