In recent years, the Oregon Ducks have opened the season softly. Matchups against Portland State, Idaho and Montana State won't draw many eyes and often allow the Ducks a chance to experiment in a game situation with different players and different looks.
Although the Ducks nearly got tripped up against Idaho in 2024, the season opener is typically an easy victory to start the season with a winning record. However, that isn't the case this year.
Oregon will welcome Boise State to Eugene on Sept. 5, and the history between the two programs typically calls for a close game. In 2024, the Ducks needed a pair of special teams scores and a walk-off field goal to take down the Broncos, 37-34. While the Ducks are favored to win the game, the team will be tested
right out of the gate with a playoff contender that could push them to the wire.
Defensive coordinator Chris Hampton isn't planning on getting too crazy with the game plan against the Broncos, simply because the caliber of the opponent calls for his full attention. The Ducks will have opportunities in the future to rotate more often and experiment with different lineups, but Hampton is focused on getting the 11 best defenders on the field for game week.
"Boise State’s an unbelievable football team," Hampton said. "I don't think there'll be anything we can hold back. I mean, those guys almost beat us last time they came here. I think we have to unload, you know, if that makes sense. I don't think there's anything you can say 'hold back.'"
Oregon returns a veteran four along the defensive line, as well as a reloaded secondary. Brandon Finney Jr., Ify Obidegwu and Na'eem Offord will man the perimeter threats, while Koi Perich, Carl Williams IV and freshman Davon Benjamin figure to make big impacts in their debuts with the Ducks.
For Hampton, a winning game plan against Boise State is less about his football know-how, but rather putting his talented defenders in the best position to succeed.
"There's no secrets in football," Hampton said. "Cover 3 is Cover 3. Cover 1 is Cover 1. A lot of times it's who's running Cover 1? Who's running Cover 3? Who's rushing the passer? There's really not a lot of secrets.”
The Ducks and Broncos are set for an afternoon kickoff at Autzen Stadium on Sept. 5, hoping to launch a national championship season with a victory over a playoff contender. There may be no secrets to Oregon's defense, and the overwhelming amount of talent at Hampton's disposal should give the Ducks a clear edge. But against a program that has given Oregon fits in the past, the Ducks are aiming for a perfect start.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon defense plans to 'unload' against Boise State in Week 1
