ScoopDuck Predictions: Surprise Storylines vs WSU
Well we’ve reached the halfway point in the week. It’s almost time for Oregon to hit the road and head North. But we’ve got a couple days left of providing coverage on the big game.
You probably saw our score predictions yesterday. Now it’s time for our surprise storyline to come from this game.
Below are the picks. Let’s get right into them.
Corpatty: Terrance Ferguson Tops 100 yards
TFerg has never recorded more than 37 yards receiving in any game as a Duck. That changes Saturday as Ferguson breaks out in a big way. I think Nix and Ferguson hook up for multiple 20+ yard completions and Ferguson has a monster game in which he tops the century mark for the first time. Related trivia question….who was the last Oregon tight end to register a 100 yard receiving game?
Jarrid Denney: Bradyn Swinson will get back on track for Oregon
Sophomore edge rusher Bradyn Swinson is off to a bit of a slow start this year. After publicly stating during fall camp that his goal for 2022 is to tally 12 sacks, Swinson has recorded none through three games and has just one tackle.
Against Washington State, though, Swinson could find his groove. He’s still getting plenty of playing time and played 26 snaps against BYU last weekend. Washington State’s right tackle, Ma’ake Fifita, has been poor as a pass-blocker this year. Also, the Cougars have already given up nine sacks in three games.
Because of all those factors, I’m looking for Swinson to have a big day.
Joel Gunderson: Bo Nix Shreds Remaining Doubts
Last Saturday was an open-arms moment for Bo Nix in front of the home crowd. His performance against BYU — followed by a cringe-worthy 30 minutes from Ty Thompson — finally broke the spirit of his detractors. The crowd embraced Nix for his toughness and command of the offense.
Now against WSU, he’s going to take the next step.
The Cougars have morphed from an offensive juggernaut under Mike Leach into a nasty, physical, defensive-oriented program. Their win at Wisconsin opened a lot of eyes nationally, and the perception is that their defense, combined with the uniqueness of Pullman, will be a lot for Oregon to handle, especially with “Good Bo/Bad Bo” at the helm.
But he’s going to shred that narrative. Look for Nix to continue on the path he’s followed the previous two weeks: Efficient, accurate, athletic, and poised when things get salty.
Nix’s Revenge Tour continues with a big conference road win.
Travis Rooke-ley: Nix’s Consistency
The storyline coming out of BYU was, ” We got the Good Nix”. I actually think that in this system, with this OL and skill talent, he’s just going to be good. I think Nix plays well again, limiting mistakes and spreading the ball around to lead us to the win.
Jhop: Oregon OL Surrenders Zero Sacks
This is clearly a hot topic at the moment. A major key to the game if you will. Can Oregon keep this Wazzu defense away from Bo Nix on Saturday?
I mean, does anyone think Wazzu is better than the Georgia defense they faced in week one? I know I sure as heck don’t.
Between the play-calling, Nix’s escapability and the offensive line, Oregon has been able to keep his jersey clean. If Nix can extend some plays with his legs on Saturday I think Oregon is in for some big play potential.
