Duck1984

The Ducks are winning, but not dominating. I suspect that the plan has been to limit risk with fewer plays on offense and less blitzing on defense, likely because the team is young and has experienced significant injuries. The result is our efficiency numbers are not as strong as other teams. The analysis may be right and the Ducks may need some luck to be invited to the playoffs even if they win out. I will still enjoy the ride.

Great article David. Agree that games are more enjoyable to watch. I especially enjoy trying to understand the early offensive play calls that appear to probe for defensive player tendencies, then look for the adjustments made to attack them. Seems the Duck coaches are playing chess instead of checkers (pistol plunge).

The D line has a great opportunity to earn respect from around the country on Saturday.

@DurangoJimthe Brooks offense during my time in the early 80’s was run for little to no gain, incomplete pass or screen for little to no gain, quarterback draw stopped for loss, then punt. Repeat until defensive takeaway, then downfield pass for score or long gain and field goal. I suffered through many games with little to no defensive takeaways. The Toilet Bowl of ‘83 was the worst even with lots of takeaways as few passes were caught and all field goal attempts missed.

@Charles Fischeryour cat fascination may get the wrong reaction from some Ducks.

Come to Oregon to get paid to play? I guess it’s better for the Ducks when it’s legal compared to the good ‘ole SEC and Dawg days.

Oregon players are graded on Sundays after games. Players also meet with coaches to address expectations to meet standards during the next week. Could the disrespect tweet Sunday night have anything to do with his Sunday grades or standards discussion?

@Jon Josephfor a great golf experience without paying resort prices, try playing Florence Golf Links, then driving down to Bandon to play the Crossings course. Both are top notch courses at great prices if you look for the deals. That said, I will schedule a couple rounds at Bandon Resort in February or March before fees go back up.

In my view, there is no terrible outcome for the Ducks as long as they win the Battle for Oregon and the PAC 12 championship. Sure, it would be fun to see the Ducks in the invitational semifinals, but any slip or slight serves as motivation for next year. Go Ducks!

Agree that some receivers will leave. Others will stay or join based on their understanding of the opportunity. Just not sure that Mycah had much of a choice in the timing. If he let his frustrations be known during Sunday grading, he may have been cut from the program.

Thank you for the analysis Coach! Do you think the Ducks have the type of quarterback needed to run this offense next year? Or will the offense shift to support the next chosen QB?

Not sure Pittman chose to leave the team, other than in response to a disciplinary action. Being passionate about football is great, except when expressing your personal frustration with other players and coaches. That should be done calmly, if at all.

If he didn’t want to be here after being supported through two serious injuries, was he a good fit? This may be a good thing for the program for recruits to know that nothing is guaranteed, and everything is earned on a championship caliber team. Alabama recruits accept this.

Great analysis Joshua! I concur.

Oregon (Mario?) is lucky to have Uncle Phil around in case the need arises to adjust to the new market for head coaches.

Sorry to see this happen, but Coach C rightfully has no need for a player that becomes a distraction to the team goal.

Not sure this is going to help him.

Hope JJ3 heals quickly.

I am fine leaving UCLA at #6, as they will not have beaten a team above them in David’s ranking. But that was a good win over LSU.

Even Ted Lasso can’t imagine taking the Husky job.

While I struggle when it comes to OSU, WSU, and ASU based on a combination of head scratcher losses and head-to-head results, I can’t argue with your selections David. WSU should win out, keeping them at #3. I expect OSU to be a tough out the rest of the season. My guess is they end up ahead of ASU after this weekend and lose the 2021 Battle for Oregon to finish at #4. ASU should finish 1 - 1 for #5, but may have trouble with an improving Arizona. As always, I appreciate your analysis David!

I hope to beat OSU teams three times this season!

With Charles securing game ticket discounts for the Fishduck forum flock, who plans to attend the battle for Oregon game?

Thank you Alex and Charles!

I convinced a former long time season ticket holder friend and his wife to join us for the game in Las Vegas on Dec 3. Seems game ticket prices and airfare from Portland are increasing compared to when I bought and booked. I am happy to be an optimist!