KERRY SAYS: After seeing Arizona defense against UO, Beavers' chances look better

By Kerry Eggers

The Portland Tribune, Nov 20, 2008, Updated Oct 30, 2009 (3 Reader comments)

This may be the toughest game of the season to predict so far.

Arizona is a good team, capable in all phases of the game — offense, defense and special teams. At least, I thought so until Oregon laid 45 points on the Wildcats in the first half of last Saturday’s 55-45 victory at Autzen Stadium.

Mike Stoops’ teams are historically strong defensively. This is clearly the best offensive team he has had at Arizona, with a poised senior quarterback, a solid young tailback, the Pac-10’s leading receiver, an emerging tight end and a veteran O-line.

Arizona has the homefield advantage and the incentive of bowl implications.

Oregon State has won eight of the last nine meetings in the series, which means little. The Beavers’ confidence is at an all-time high, and a potential Rose Bowl berth is on the line, which means a lot.

The Beavers need strong performances from punter Johnny Hekker, who has make a breakthrough the past two weeks, and kicker Justin Kahut, who missed a 29-yard field-goal attempt a critical juncture in the win over California.

I was prepared to pick the Wildcats until the Ducks laid that 45-spot on them in a half. That’s a lot of points for a good team to give up. I wouldn’t bet the house, but if pressed, I’d put my money on the Beavers.

THE PICK: Oregon State 31, Arizona 27

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