The Oregon Ducks aim to solidify their dominance as they host the Washington Huskies in a pivotal Saturday showdown. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Under 50.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Washington vs. Oregon
Saturday, November 30, 2024 – 07:30 PM ET at Autzen Stadium
Washington Has Bowl Eligibility
Stepping into the spotlight, backup quarterback Demond Williams Jr. orchestrated three decisive second-half scoring drives to secure Washington’s bowl eligibility with a 31-19 victory over UCLA on November 15.
Running back Jonah Coleman was a key contributor, racking up 95 rushing yards and two touchdowns, propelling the Huskies to their second win in three games while extending their remarkable home winning streak to 20 games. Williams excelled in relief of starter Will Rogers, guiding the team to a field goal and two touchdowns, including a clutch two-yard pass to Decker DeGraaf with 5:44 remaining to seal the victory.
Rogers had led Washington to a narrow 14-13 halftime advantage but struggled in the second half, throwing two interceptions on consecutive drives, prompting his benching. Williams provided an immediate spark, completing 7 of 8 passes for 67 yards and a touchdown while adding 31 rushing yards.
Defensively, Washington was relentless. Steve Belichick’s unit limited UCLA to just three second-half points, forced two fumbles, and sacked UCLA quarterback Ethan Garbers six times. Russell Davis II was particularly impactful, recording three sacks, two of which directly contributed to Washington’s first-half scores. The defense also capitalized on UCLA’s miscues, turning turnovers into 10 critical points.
As Washington gears up for Oregon, head coach Jedd Fisch has yet to name his starting quarterback, leaving uncertainty about whether Rogers or Williams will lead the offense against the Ducks’ formidable defense.
Oregon Stays Perfect
Oregon showcased grit and determination in a 16-13 comeback win over Wisconsin on November 16. Trailing by seven entering the fourth quarter, the Ducks roared back, with Atticus Sappington’s 24-yard field goal in the final minutes securing their third fourth-quarter comeback victory of the season. Oregon’s defensive resilience played a crucial role, holding Wisconsin to its lowest output since their 2022 opener against Georgia.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel, fresh off setting the NCAA career touchdown record the previous week, was contained by Wisconsin’s defense, completing 22 of 31 passes for 218 yards with no touchdowns and one interception. Running back Jordan James shouldered the offensive load, rushing for 121 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries. Wide receiver Evan Stewart added 10 catches for 92 yards, providing a reliable target despite injuries to key players like Tez Johnson.
Oregon’s defensive depth proved vital, overcoming injuries to standout players like defensive end Jordan Burch to keep Wisconsin in check. The Ducks leaned on their defense to secure their tenth win of the season, setting the stage for a high-stakes matchup against Washington.
Keys to the Game
Washington’s quarterback situation remains fluid, with Fisch weighing his options between Rogers and Williams. Rogers has shown flashes of brilliance but remains turnover-prone, as evidenced by his two interceptions against UCLA.
Williams, in contrast, provided efficiency and energy, adding a scrambling threat that could challenge Oregon’s disciplined defense. The Ducks’ ability to pressure quarterbacks and force mistakes may tilt the scales if Washington’s offense struggles to find consistency.
Coleman will face a stiffer challenge against Oregon’s stout defensive line, which has excelled at shutting down opposing ground games. Oregon’s defense thrives on forcing offenses into long-yardage situations, making Coleman’s patience and vision essential. Washington’s offensive line will need to create opportunities against Oregon’s physical front.
James has been a reliable workhorse for Oregon, but Washington’s defense, led by Belichick, has proven adept at creating chaos. After forcing six sacks and two fumbles against UCLA, Washington will look to disrupt Oregon’s rhythm. If the Huskies can limit James’ production and force Gabriel into obvious passing situations, they’ll increase their chances of an upset.
Both teams have shown a knack for turning defensive stops into points. Washington scored 10 points off UCLA turnovers, while Oregon’s defense has delivered game-changing plays in tight contests. In a matchup expected to be decided by small margins, the team that wins the turnover battle and executes on special teams could gain a decisive edge.
NCAAF Pick
This clash promises to be a tightly contested battle defined by defensive intensity and situational execution. Oregon’s ability to adapt and thrive in close games, coupled with their defensive depth, gives them a slight advantage.
Washington’s offensive spark from Williams and Coleman could keep the Huskies in contention, but the Ducks’ balanced attack and knack for forcing mistakes should be the difference.
Expect Oregon to gradually wear down Washington’s defense, with James leading the charge. Gabriel’s experience and the Ducks’ ability to control the tempo will ultimately secure their undefeated record in a low-scoring game.
NCAAF Pick: Under 50.5 (-110) at Bet365
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