Oregon running game, key to victory over USC, is not thriving

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The biggest key in the Oregon-USC game will probably be the Ducks' offensive line and its matchup against the USC defensive line. Ducks Wire notes that the Oregon rushing attack hasn't been good enough so far this season.

"As much as we want to point fingers at the defensive line, we can also focus on the rushing attack so far this year. With both Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill in the backfield, there was an expectation that the Ducks would be able to run at will this year and lean on the ground game. Through two games, that hasn't been the case. Oregon rushed for 90 yards on Saturday, with Hill leading the way with 74, while Davison added just 23. The longest carry by any back was 14 yards. This comes a week after Oregon rushed for just 119 yards against Boise State.

"The Ducks' offense is dependent on the run game, and has been for well over a decade. If they are going to find any semblance of success this season, it's going to start up front with the offensive line — which wasn't good enough on Saturday — and the running backs finding a way to get upfield."

It really is this simple: If Oregon runs the ball, Jayden Maiava will not have as many possessions. If USC's defensive line can pounce on Oregon's offensive line, the Trojans' chances of winning will skyrocket.

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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Oregon running game, key to victory over USC, is not thriving

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