ScoopDuck Predictions: Offensive Player of the Game
We are inching our way towards the big showdown in Salt Lake. Yesterday we offered up our predictions and today we make picks on who the top offensive player of the game will be.
Below are the predictions from Joel Gunderson, Jarrid Denney and myself.
Who you got this week?
Joel Gunderson: Byron Cardwell
Recency bias? Perhaps. But I’ve seen enough from Cardwell the past three weeks to know that his emergence, along with Devon Williams’s, might be the most significant developments of the season. Even with Dye’s impressive performances, Oregon cannot go through the remainder of the season with him alone. Cardwell’s emergence has not just been timely; it’s been eye-opening. His combination of size, breakaway speed, and vision — oh, my, the vision! — make him a clear 1A back.
For a game like Utah — in the cold, with all on the line — Cardwell might be too good to keep off the field. His ability to churn out tough yards when it counts is still unknown, as his play so far has been marked by long runs, but I’m not discounting him. Look for his first 15+ carry game in SLC.
Jarrid Denney: Travis Dye
Oregon’s star running back had a relatively quiet day last Saturday by his own standards. But he’s been at his best in big games this season, and this weekend’s showdown in Salt Lake is the Ducks’ biggest conference game yet.
Utah’s defense is extremely talented and has some of the best linebackers around. But teams have proven that it’s possible to run on them this season. Oregon State hung 260 rushing yards on them by deploying the same relentless, smashmouth mentality that the Ducks have displayed recently. Oregon’s offensive line has been sensational the past few weeks, and I expect them to pave the way for another stellar performance from Dye.
Jhop: Troy Franklin
Well Mycah Pittman made his choice and he is no longer with the Ducks. Which opens up a spot for someone else. I’m sure Mario Cristobal will do some shuffling but I think we can all expect Troy Franklin will likely be the biggest benefactor immediately.
Look I’m sure Dye and Cardwell will get theirs this week. The offense will rely on it. But someone is going to have to make a few plays in the passing game and I’m going to wager Utah will focus on Devon Williams.
Troy Franklin, welcome to your coming out party.
