Saturday Night Special: Oregon vs Colorado Game Preview
The Colorado Buffs are currently the hottest team in the nation. Through the leadership of Hall of Famer Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, the Buffs have transcendent sports media. Their non-stop media coverage has everyone looking at them and how they will fare week to week. Now at 3-0 with two, one-score games, the Buffs have not dominated, but they have made people take notice.
Going into Week 4, they face their toughest competition yet. The Buffs head to Eugene, Oregon to face conference opponent Oregon. Many analysts do not think that the Buffs have a chance against a talented and experienced Oregon team. While the Buffs have a revamped roster, there is no shortage of talent at their disposal. The Ducks are currently 3-0 as well and have scored an impressive amount of points thus far. Despite their points, the Ducks may have a tougher test this weekend than many expect.
Oregon Run Game
The largest advantage that Oregon has over the Colorado Buff football team is the ability to run the ball. Oregon is averaging nearly 230 rushing yards per game in 2023, which ranks 11th in the country. The Oregon running backs have combined for over 7 yards per carry. On the other hand, the Colorado Buffs are dead last in the league in rush defense with nearly 200 yards surrendered on average. It can be argued that the Buffs have faced stiffer competition, but the numbers are pretty drastic. Oregon’s ground defense isn’t amazing considering they are 3rd in the conference in rush defense, but the Colorado offense is only averaging 60 yards per game on the ground. The ground game is the clear answer for Oregon to have the advantage this game.
The Oregon Ducks ground game is impressive and the Colorado Buffs defense is not. The biggest test for Colorado will be to find an answer to slow down the Oregon run and force Bo Nix to make mistakes.
Bo Nix vs Shedeur Sanders
The difference between Bo Nix and Shedeur Sanders is simply in their mobility. While Bo Nix will use his legs to get things done, Shedeuer Sanders is more likely to stay in the pocket and find his options. Regardless, both quarterbacks are the best players for their team and will need to be precise to win this game.
It is likely that the game will come down to who can score more points. Neither defense is exceptional, and both offenses are dynamic in putting up points. So far this season, Oregon has a slight advantage in the amount of points, but Shedeur’s ability to drive down the field in clutch moments has been his calling card. Both quarterbacks make great decisions and have not turned the ball over by their own accord. Whichever quarterback can get the ball last will likely have the best chance to win.
Prediction: Oregon 55 Colorado 48
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Written By: Lemarkus Bailey