Oregon football: Tyler Shough Show keeps Ducks playoff hopes alive
By John Buhler
Tyler Shough’s great game was key in Oregon football staying alive for the playoff.
Without Tyler Shough, Oregon football’s College Football Playoff dreams would have died.
Oregon was 2-0 on the season when the Ducks welcomed the UCLA Bruins to Autzen Stadium. Though UCLA looks to be improved under head coach Chip Kelly, this was a game the Ducks were expected to win going away. Well, as it turns out, that was most certainly not the case. Shough did just enough to help Oregon hold off embarrassment at home vs. UCLA with a three-point victory.
Does Oregon have what it takes to make the College Football Playoff?
Shough completed 19-of-31 passes for 334 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. Every completion was necessary to hold off the Bruins, as UCLA ran all over the Ducks defense. UCLA running back Demetric Felton had 34 carries for 167 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Bruins get to 267 yards on the ground. Apparently, stopping the run is an issue for the Ducks.
Ultimately, 3-0 is 3-0 for a team like Oregon. Because the Ducks are seen as the best team in the Pac-12, they will get the benefit of the doubt if they navigate their conference schedule unscathed. For that reason, Oregon is definitely still in the mix to reach the College Football Playoff. While Shough has played very well in his first year as the starter, that defense is bad.
Oregon may have what it takes to go undefeated as a Pac-12 champion, but the Ducks just as easily lose to seemingly anyone on their schedule. This game vs. UCLA had no business being this close. Then again, here we are. As long as Shough continues to progress under center and does not make boneheaded mistakes, Oregon has the potential to be a top-four team in a few weeks.
Shough solved what was the Ducks’ biggest issue, but this team is far from perfect.
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