A few concerns I noticed heading into league play that may not be of any concern at all, but maybe you noticed it too. Conversions. Oregon converted on third down at its best rate, so far this season, in its route of Montana. That said, in looking at our game against Montana last week, the Ducks were 6 of 3 on third down {or 46 %}. We won and no complaints, but IT WAS MONTANA! Also, we went just 1 of 4 on fourth downs and all these were 4 yards or less. Problems? Not because it happened but because it happened with the caliber of team.
The running game has been less than proficient considering the competition with running backs going 2 of 4 converting on third and two or less. Actually, CJ Verdell picked up the teams only fourth down conversion with a three yard run on fourth and one, that led to Oregon’s first touchdown.
That’s not all. yes, I noticed something else. Oregon was 2 of 6 on third and short and 1 of 2 on 4th down against Auburn and 2 of 5 and 4 of 5, respectively, against Nevada.
Oregon’s 11 attempted fourth down conversion with 6 successful attempts, lead the country so far this season.
Asked why he went for it so often Coach C said “because we got to get better at it”.
Well, that’s how you get to Carnegie Hall, Right? Practice Practice Practice. However, it does not seem we are getting exceedingly better and that is my concern. However, we are getting better but at what price and timing IS EVERYTHING.
I didn’t mind going for it on 4th down so much EXCEPT when they did so in field goal range with the added bummer that they didn’t convert and had to turn the ball over. Live game practice of field goals is critical for our young, 0 for 1 attempt, kicker. When asked about it, Cristabol said he “wanted to play more football”, but I hope it doesn’t come back to bite them in the ass. At this point in the game is was well in hand at 28 to 0. Cristabol still makes decisions that seem to indicate that he still has stuff to learn as head coach. Some say his rookie mistakes cost Oregon the Stanford game last year. It remains to be seen how Oregon deals with road games this year. So far, not so good. Overall, the Ducks have improved in many areas, but still lack a certain craftsmanship in coaching decisions and on offense that comes with experience. Interviews with the Oregon players who suffered through the cough, cough loss last year have indicated that Saturday’s game has been circled on the calendar for the last year. Oregon should go in and, barring sloppy mistakes, win against a less talented Stanford squad. I’m hoping we go in and take care of business in front of a BYE week before facing Cal at home in 2 weeks.
Great points. After the Cal game the kicking game looks WAY flawed. 20/20 hindsight huh? Thete’s work to do in that arena. Damn, can’t we ever get a solid FG kicker we don’t worry about every time he approaches tthe ball?