OSUArthur, Fayetteville (12/8/2008 9:40:28 AM)

You are right in that they are similar, but the cowboy defense has shown far more success in stopping the run than Oregon has. They look similar statistically but, Oregon faced three teams that had over 2,000 yards rushing. They lost to two of them (USC & Cal), and had a close win over the other(Stanford). OSU on the other hand played four teams that have rushed for over 2,000 yards this season (OU, Texas, Mizzou, and Baylor) OSU has beaten two of them. OSU's defense can handle a rushing team, but not one that passes very well. Look at OSU's ability against Colt Mccoy, running quarterback, and it was a close game. Chase Daniel pouts and quits when falling behind. Other than that the two good pocket passing quarterbacks OSU faced obliterated the OSU defense (Sam Bradford, Graham Harrell).

I think you picked the wrong part of the game to focus on. This game will completely be a question of the passing game, and turnovers. If Oregon gets its passing game going, this game will be decided on who turns the ball over more. OSU will have more success running the football than Oregon in this game. Games are all about match-ups. Oregon will not be able to handle the running quarterback with Dez Bryant, Brandon Pettigrew, Damian Davis, and two great running options at tailback. At best Oregon will stop one of the running options, but unless they get turnovers they won't stop the passing game either.

Dave in Houston, Houston (12/8/2008 10:39:33 AM)

OSUArthur, you're forgetting the part about OSU being without its D Coord.

Actually, the key to the game is the T. Boone vs. Phil Knight Matchup...expect to see this comparison ad-nauseum.

RickJames, (12/9/2008 12:11:36 AM)

I think the passing game and turnovers will be key here also. I suspect Pac-10 defenses are better than Big-12 defenses despite what the pundits say. The only common opponent was WSU and OSU only beat them 39-14 and Oregon beat them on their home field four weeks later 63-14 with a sophomore JC transfer QB who started the season #4 on the depth chart and was starting his second game after being knocked out with a concussion the week before in the first quarter of his first start ever. His first practice with Oregon was in August and only knew about four plays at the time and has improved immensely since then.