Oregon vs. Washington State: 3 fascinating one-on-one matchups to watch

Oregon has the advantage over Washington State as far as NFL talent goes. Pro Football Focus has six Ducks in their top 175. Only three Cougars appear on PFF’s Big Board.

Last week, we focused on the defensive line for Oregon. This week, we have the opportunity to focus on the offensive side of the ball.

All statistics are provided by Sports Reference, CFB

Chau Smith-Wade vs. Troy Franklin

One member of Washington State’s defensive backfield looking to increase his favorability in the eyes of NFL scouts is Chau Smith-Wade. The cornerback is continuing an accomplished career with a QB rating when targeted well under 100. He finished the 2021 and 2022 seasons with a 58.8 and 68.2 rating, respectively. According to PFF, Smith-Wade’s passer rating when targeted is 71.0 through five games this year.

This season, Smith-Wade has recorded 31 tackles, two tackles for loss, and five passes defended. He has allowed a 48% completion rate. On 33 targets this season, he has allowed 16 receptions and zero touchdowns.

Smith-Wade is also an excellent tackler who enjoys delivering big hits.

The Washington State cornerback must be excellent in every aspect of the game against an explosive Oregon offense. However, his coverage skills will be pushed to the extreme when he lines up against wide receiver Troy Franklin.

When Bo Nix drops back to pass, there is a high likelihood that he is targeting Franklin. The junior wideout leads the team in targets and receptions with 40.

Franklin showed off his talents against Washington last week, recording eight receptions for 154 yards and one touchdown. He averaged an incredible 19.3 yards per catch.

Franklin is on pace to have the best season of his career. Through six games, the wideout has 40 catches, 689 yards, eight touchdowns, and averages 17.2 yards per reception.

It should be an incredible one-on-one matchup when Franklin and Smith-Wade line up across from each other.