Oregon State's Jaquizz Rodgers and Oregon's LaMichael James will battle it out in the Civil War.
Oregon State Beavers at Oregon Ducks, Thursday 9:00PM
This game is often referred to one of the best rivalries that nobody thinks about. Probably because it is on the west coast and have never really decided anything other than state supremacy – but you gotta love the name Civil War right? Both teams enter trying to to improve their bowl positioning and I believe Oregon State has a chance to go to the Rose Bowl with a victory…but they might be even more interested in spoiling Oregon’s chances to do so even if it doesn’t mean grabbing it for themselves.
It seems that Oregon State is always peaking at the end of the season and this year is no different. They enter the season at 8-3 off of four straight victories. Their three losses are to Cincinatti, USC and Arizona, all ranked opponents. They have a star in the backfield in Jacquizz Rogers and Sean Canfield has really improved over the last couple of years drastically reducing his interceptions. On defense they have not been as stout as in previous years but thankfully their run D is solid…it will be tested against the Ducks.
The Ducks have come a long way since being embarrased on the Smurf Turf in week 1. I Didn’t see them dominating against USC and if they had been able to slow down the Cardinal they might have even been considered as a National Championship alternate. They should be good and focused against OSU as they need the win to grab the Rose Bowl bid. They will follow their formula of relying of the running of LeMichael James and Jeremiah Masoli but don’t be surprised to see some of LeGarrette Blount mixed in. They can certainly outscore the Beavers if they have to.
Game Prediction: This will definitely not be a blowout but I would expect a lot of offense. There is so much more at stake now that USC has fallen off their perch and both coaches can smell the money and recruiting that will flow to the winner. Since I am focusing on coaching and I going to side with Oregon State because I think they have an edge there. Mike Riley has experience grabbing games where the Beavers are significant dogs and although I would like them better at home I think they can muster a huge upset in this one.
Score Prediction:
Oregon State – 40
Oregon – 35
News/Notes:
-Beavers are 4-0 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
-Ducks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 Thursday games.
-Over is 7-0 in the last 7 meetings.
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