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College Football Upset Alert, Week 16: Championship Weekend edition

By Sonny Martinez

ACC Championship Game participants Clemson (left) and Notre Dame both remain in contention to make the College Football Playoff field, to be announced Sunday.Ndfootball
ACC Championship Game participants Clemson (left) and Notre Dame both remain in contention to make the College Football Playoff field, to be announced Sunday.Ndfootball /
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Dec 5, 2020; Berkeley, California, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Tyler Shough (12) controls the ball against the California Golden Bears during the third quarter at California Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 5, 2020; Berkeley, California, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Tyler Shough (12) controls the ball against the California Golden Bears during the third quarter at California Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Pac-12: USC (-3) vs. Oregon

I don’t want to say USC would be a fraudulent champion, but they’re not even playing the true North division winner. Washington had to withdraw due to Covid issues so Oregon steps in to take their spot.

USC is beatable this year. They’ve pulled out last minute wins on three occasions, none against very good teams.

Oregon’s key for victory is a fast start. The Ducks need to hammer the gas and not let up. Oregon has scored over 35 points in all but one game and they’ll need that plus more Friday night.

Oregon needs to throw early and often. Take deep shots, surprise the defense and punch USC in the mouth, figuratively of course. Devon Williams is the team’s leading receiver and he should have his number called quite a bit.

USC is at their best with their backs against the wall. Oregon will be in a dangerous place if they enter the fourth quarter and USC is within striking distance, which the Trojans have proven is 14 points or less.

Would it be an upset? Not really. In an alternate universe, USC is 2-3, Clay Helton is fired and the Trojans are scrambling. They’re not as good as their record shows, but they’ve proven that in the last five minutes of games, they’re among the nation’s best. Sometimes that’s all that matters.

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