The first-half gameplan, in its differences from the 2018 general plan, revolved around two factors: first, a healthy respect for Auburn’s defensive line, and second, the extensive injuries to the wide receiver corps. The effect was far more outside running (about 50/50, compared to 80/20 inside/outside last year) and short, quick passes instead of taking deep shots or setting up for intermediate route progression (about 75% of all throws were within 5 yards of the line of scrimmage). This modified gameplan was fairly effective.
Two more things happened around halftime: first, both starting running backs were sidelined with cramps, and second, Auburn’s defense began to adjust to Oregon’s quick passing game.