Washington vs. Oregon College Football Week 14 Picks: Is the Total Too High?

Washington Clinches Bowl Eligibility

Demond Williams Jr. stepped in for starting quarterback Will Rogers and orchestrated three critical scoring drives in the second half as Washington secured bowl eligibility with a 31-19 victory over UCLA on November 15.

Jonah Coleman added 95 rushing yards and two touchdowns, helping the Huskies notch their second win in three games and extend their remarkable home winning streak to 20 games.

Williams led Washington to a field goal and two touchdowns in the second half, including a pivotal two-yard strike to Decker DeGraaf with 5:44 remaining, sealing the win over the Bruins. Rogers had guided the Huskies to a narrow 14-13 halftime lead but faltered with interceptions on Washington’s first two drives after the break.

The Washington Defense Took Over

Washington’s defense stepped up, limiting UCLA to just three points following those turnovers. The Steve Belichick-led unit forced two fumbles and recorded six sacks of UCLA quarterback Ethan Garbers, including back-to-back sacks on third and fourth down during a late Bruins threat.

The Huskies capitalized with 10 points off turnovers, turning defensive stops into game-changing momentum.

Rogers finished the day completing 13 of 21 passes for 115 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. His first pick deflected off a receiver’s hands, while the second was an ill-advised throw into triple coverage, leading to his benching.

Williams took over and excelled, completing 7 of 8 passes for 67 yards and a touchdown while adding 31 rushing yards.

Russell Davis II played a key role on defense, tallying three sacks, two of which helped set up Washington’s first-half scores.

Meanwhile, Coleman, after early struggles, adjusted his approach, patiently waiting for his blocks to open up the holes that led to his first touchdown.

The victory marked a significant milestone in Washington’s first season under head coach Jedd Fisch, a feat that seemed unlikely after losing three of their previous four games.

As they prepare for a showdown with Oregon, Fisch declined to name a starting quarterback for the pivotal matchup.

Oregon Is Still Undefeated

Oregon showcased their resilience in a gritty 16-13 win over Wisconsin on November 16. The Ducks, trailing by seven heading into the fourth quarter as Wisconsin fans celebrated with “Jump Around,” responded by dominating the final period.

Atticus Sappington’s 24-yard field goal with 2:36 left broke a tie, giving Oregon their third fourth-quarter comeback victory of the season, following similar feats against Boise State and Ohio State.

Despite scoring their fewest points since a 49-3 loss to Georgia in the 2022 season opener, the Ducks leaned on their defense to overcome a tough Badgers team.

Dillon Gabriel, fresh off breaking Case Keenum’s NCAA career touchdown record the previous week, was held in check, completing 22 of 31 passes for 218 yards with an interception and no touchdowns.

Jordan James carried the offensive load, rushing for 121 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries, while Evan Stewart hauled in 10 receptions for 92 yards.

Oregon overcame injuries to defensive end Jordan Burch and wide receiver Tez Johnson, relying on their depth and defensive effort to secure the win.

Key Matchups

The Huskies, under first-year head coach Fisch, have found ways to adapt despite inconsistency, while Oregon remains a formidable foe, bolstered by their stout defense and ability to win close games. This matchup will hinge on which team can exploit their opponent’s weaknesses and execute in high-pressure moments.

Washington’s Quarterback Situation vs. Oregon’s Defense

Washington’s quarterback situation adds intrigue, as Jedd Fisch has yet to name a starter between Rogers and Williams. Rogers has shown flashes but is prone to turnovers, as evidenced by his two interceptions against UCLA.

Williams, on the other hand, brought energy and efficiency, completing 7 of 8 passes and adding a scrambling element. Oregon’s defense has been stellar all season, and their ability to pressure quarterbacks and capitalize on mistakes could force Fisch to make an early decision if Rogers struggles again.

Washington must protect the football and find a way to keep the offense balanced against a disciplined Ducks’ front.

Washington’s Rushing Attack vs. Oregon’s Front Seven

Coleman’s 95-yard, two-touchdown performance against UCLA showcased his ability to adjust mid-game, but he will face a tougher test against Oregon’s defensive line. The Ducks held Wisconsin to just 13 points and they thrive on stuffing the run and forcing offenses into third-and-long situations.

Coleman’s patience and vision will be critical, as Washington’s offensive line will need to create opportunities against a physical Oregon front.

Jordan James and Oregon’s Ground Game vs. Washington’s Defense

James has been a reliable workhorse, racking up 121 yards and a touchdown against Wisconsin. Washington’s defense, however, has proven opportunistic, forcing turnovers and recording six sacks in their win over UCLA.

Belichick’s unit must focus on limiting James’ production while maintaining discipline against Oregon’s balanced offensive approach. If Washington can disrupt the run game and make Oregon one-dimensional, they’ll increase their chances of staying competitive.

Special Teams and Turnovers

Both teams have demonstrated the ability to capitalize on turnovers. Washington scored 10 points off UCLA mistakes, while Oregon’s defense has consistently delivered in clutch moments. The team that wins the turnover battle and executes in the kicking game will have the upper hand in a matchup where margins will be razor-thin.

The Pick

This game is likely to feature a defensive slugfest early as both teams work to establish their identities. Oregon’s depth, particularly on defense, and their ability to execute in close games should give them a slight edge. Washington will rely on Coleman and Williams to spark the offense, but Oregon’s defense is built to limit big plays and force opponents into errors.

On the other side, James and Oregon’s offensive line will gradually wear down Washington’s defense, and while Gabriel was not at his best at Wisconsin, he will get back on track and the Ducks’ ability to control the tempo and capitalize on turnovers will be the difference in a low-scoring game.

College Football Pick: Under 52 (-110) at BetOnline 

Under 52 (-110)

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