Oregon Defensive Keys to the Game vs. USC Trojans

The Trojans' offense is averaging 45.5 points and 486.1 yards total yards per game.

The No. 6 Oregon Ducks (8-1, 5-1 Pac-12) have another big test on Saturday when they go to battle against an explosive USC offense, led by reigning Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams. 

Oregon might be playing the best defense in the Pac-12, and it'll be exciting to watch more good-on-good this week. 

Here are my keys to the game for Oregon's defense. 

1. Keep Caleb Williams in the Pocket

Williams is the most dynamic quarterback in college football and he's leading the Trojans in rushing touchdowns with 10 on the year. While he's a great pocket passer, he's at his best when he uses his legs to extend plays. 

If he gets out of the pocket, that'll make it more difficult for the secondary to cover USC's strong collection of wide receiver talent. Lanning said this week that quarterback Brock Thomas has been helping them prepare for Williams' scrambling ability, and the Ducks did a good job of containing WSU quarterback Cameron Ward earlier this year, who's also incredibly elusive.

2. Get Pressure on Caleb Williams

Darby Winter/Ducks Digest

As great a quarterback as Caleb Williams is, he can only do so much under pressure. The USC offensive line has given up 27 sacks on the year and Washington logged three last week.

If Oregon's defense, led by players like Brandon Dorlus, Jordan Burch and Jeffrey Bassa can get pressure on Williams, it'll make it difficult for the star quarterback to find a rhythm. The last thing the Ducks want is Williams to get comfortable in what should be a hostile environment Saturday night at Atuzen Stadium.

3. Limit Explosive Plays

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USC's offense is averaging 7.5 yards per play and 9.36 yards per passing attempt. The Trojans have plenty of talent at wide receiver, led by redshirt senior Tahj Washington (16), who's pacing the team with 833 receiving yards. 

But Oregon can't overlook Brenden Rice, Mario Williams and Zachariah Branch. If USC is pressured to put up points, which I think they will be, the Ducks' defense needs to limit big chunk plays and do their best to keep everything in front of them. 

It's no secret that explosive plays can provide a spark, so limiting those should to be a priority. Even with MarShawn Lloyd trending toward a return, I expect Oregon to do a good job defending the run. Sound tackling, especially in space, will be crucial on Saturday.

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