Ready or not, Oregon’s experiment with simplification had to end.
In the wake of allowing 62 points to Utah in late September, the UO defensive staff streamlined its game plans, primarily for the benefit of a young secondary. The Ducks responded by going 3-1 in October, capitalizing on the simplifications to lead the country in sacks per game during the month, by ending it on a bittersweet note by giving up 742 yards in a triple-overtime win at Arizona State.
Running a tailored package gave the defense a solid base to build upon, but the limited variation was taken advantage of by the Sun Devils.