WEEK 5

My take on this is that UCLA could have been in the game with better coaching. Their athletes are just as good or better, but trying to establish the run through the 4th quarter is just stupid.

Oregon's defense was good only because they blitzed so many guys when they knew UCLA would run. Which was every 1st down. Except for once, and UCLA got a big play out of it. Neuheisel is a much better strategist than that, so I think Oregon will have a little more trouble stopping the UW offense. UW mixes it up a lot.

Tuiososopo tends to make mistakes when he's flustered, and it usually results in a few picks. The crowd noise will confuse him a little more as well, so I expect a mediocre day out of him. The UW Offensive Line is better than UCLA's. If Marques has a break-out day then watch out. He had a bad game against CU and he doesn't like to have two in a row.

The running game should be good for two reasons. #1 the Husky receivers are doing really well, even though they're young. #2 is Jeremy Stevens. Nobody can guard him. Nobody. The only way he can be stopped is if he's put in jail before Saturday. Quick dump passes are the best thing the Husky offense does, so blitz away Ducks.

On offense, Oregon was good but UCLA's secondary was really good. I saw some amazing plays by the Bruin CB's. But they Oregon O-line gave up some sacks. UW's defense is better than UCLA's, I think we'll see at least 4 sacks. If UW's corners and safties can continue to play at top level then they can keep the game close, but Oregon will still get some big passing plays.

One thing that scared me about the Oregon offense was how they mixed up the plays. Sometimes an option, sometimes slants, they always find a way to move the ball forward. Huskies will counter with blitzes. It'll be fun to watch.

All of the Huskies had Saturday off and watched the Oregon game. They will be prepared. They're also underdogs so they will be focused at the game.

For the last few games I thought the Huskies would lose. I thought for sure Colorado would beat us. Now I think the Huskies will win in Eugene and end the streak. If I'm wrong I would not be surprised at all. Huskies by 7 in a very close game.

- COMMENTS -