When the 2024 schedule was announced, the Oregon Ducks Oct. 12th game against Ohio State stood out as the Ducks’ marquee matchup, but Oregon vs. Michigan in the Big House was a close second.
Now, two-thirds of the way through the 2024 season, this weekend’s game between the Ducks and the Wolverines is the opposite of a marquee matchup. Michigan has experienced a major drop-off in skill from last year’s national championship team to this year, and Oregon is flourishing.
Oregon shouldn’t have much trouble in this game, but even though the Ducks are the No. 1 team in the country, they can still be beaten on any given Saturday. Below are my three keys for Oregon to ensure that doesn’t happen and the Ducks move to 9-0.
Disciplined Defense
Photo Courtesy of Ethan Landa
It’s hard to fathom or describe how bad the 2024 Michigan offense is. If Oregon’s defense —which is elite — bends and doesn’t break, they can count on the Wolverines offense to make mistakes, especially in the passing game. The Wolverines have averaged 130.8 passing yards per game this season — last in the Big Ten — and against the Oregon defense, it should be far less.
Dominate time of possession
Photo Courtesy of Ethan Landa
The only way Michigan’s abysmal offense will be able to score a competitive amount of points is if they’re given extra possessions and time with the ball. For that reason, protecting the football and sustaining long drives should be a focus for Oregon. Expect to see Oregon running the ball frequently because the more time the Ducks spend with the ball, the more likely they are to win.
Take some shots
Photo Courtesy of Ethan Landa
It’s unknown whether Michigan’s best player cornerback Will Johnson will play in Saturday’s game due to a leg injury, but whether he plays or not, the Ducks should look to take some shots on this Michigan defense. Oregon has no shortage of playmakers, and the Wolverines likely aren’t equipped across to stop the Ducks from being explosive. I want to see Oregon take some shots early, putting themselves in the driver seat.
