3 things to watch

1

Born to run: Oregon’s version of the triple option is nothing like the older versions used in past decades by high schools and colleges. Oregon’s current look features shovel passes, downfield throws, quarterback runs – many of them based on what the defense presents to the quarterback after the ball is snapped.

Dennis Dixon is getting better for the Ducks under center and in his ability to spark the Oregon ground game. If he’s successful today, the Cougars will be hard pressed to keep up.

2

Does the red zone run crimson? The Cougars, after last week’s three-point outing against California, have scored touchdowns in fewer than half their trips inside the 20-yard line on the season. Fixing this problem is a top priority for WSU.

Down two tight ends because of injuries, the Cougars unsuccessfully experimented with a new formation last week. Today, Cougars coaches will have to decide if they want to continue working on those same sets or if they’d rather introduce new looks. Whatever they opt to do, similar rates of success in close will equal near-certain defeat.

3

Up those ugly sleeves: Oregon, while not atop the sartorial heap, has done well with trick plays all season, and WSU head coach Bill Doba wants his team to be on the lookout for more.

Already this season, the Cougars watched their upset hopes go down the drain at Auburn after a fake punt. If they’re not careful, a similar fate could await them this afternoon in front of the home crowd.