WSU Cougars Vs Oregon Ducks: 6 Things To Watch For
By Josh Davis
4: Marcus Mariota’s Heisman Campaign Continues…
Aug 31, 2013; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Cameron Artis-Payne (44) is chased by Washington State Cougars safety Deone Bucannon (20) during the second half at Jordan Hare Stadium. The Tigers beat the Cougars 31-24. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
Marcus Mariota is on the cusp of becoming a Heisman runaway with just a couple more perfect performances. I think we’ve all heard this kid’s story ad naseum. If you haven’t here’s a link to a Heisman story.
5: Special Teams…
I’m worried about this aspect of the game for WSU. Oregon is as strong in their special team’s game as they are offensively. The nice thing is that WSU has covered pretty well so far.
The Cougs securing the football on returns will loom big too. The Ducks just live off of that stuff so Leon Brooks (punts) and whoever takes the kickoff duties needs to be solid with the ball.
6: Deone Bucannon’s Chance to Shine…
This is exactly the way it sounds. Deone Bucannon has grown into a star and just recently was added to Phil Steele’s mid-season Pac-12 conference first team defensive backfield.
A big-time game by the senior safety would catapult him to first team status nationally and a definite first round pick. There will be plenty of scouts at this game and it’s Deone’s first real audition.