With Tyson Coleman in sweats and Derrick Malone possibly limited due to a late-season injury, the Ducks need one of their freshman linebackers, Tyrell Robinson or Torrodney Prevot to step up in a big way tonight. The other possibilities are Oshay Dunmore or Joe Walker, but with Texas figuring to test the Ducks with a power running game, Oregon needs a response from a depleted linebacker unit.
Pharaoh Brown is in uniform but suspended. Senior wide receiver Daryle Hawkins is wearing a knee brace and has been limited in practice.
Marcus Mariota, however, is not. He is sans knee brace tonight, reportedly ready to tuck the football and run or throw with both feet planted.
With Hawkins out, Chance Allen and De'Anthony Thomas may get more touches at receiver. And Evan Baylis, who came on in practice this season, will get more snaps at tight end.
The game hinges on Oregon's ability to establish tempo and execute on offense, and on stopping the Longhorns power running game. A key matchup is Oregon left tackle Tyler Johnstone against quick, athletic edge rusher Jackson Jeffcoat, the Ted Hendricks Award winner. UT will move Jeffcoat around in the defensive set to try and confuse and preoccupy Steve Greatwood's offensive line.
Everyone has had four weeks to get ready.
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