Oregon’s Offense Should Be Effective Vs. Nevada — But Maybe Not Enough

In Week 1, the Nevada Wolf Pack took down the Purdue Boilermakers in a 34-31 stunner, outscoring them 27-7 in the second half and winning on a last-second field goal. 

However, there were some glaring issues with Nevada’s defense. 

Purdue quarterback Elijah Sindelar went 34-for-52 for 423 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions while star wideout Rondale Moore hauled in 11 passes for 124 yards. Running back Zander Horvath accounted for 66 yards on the ground and the Boilermakers accounted for 519 total yards despite committing five turnovers. 

Meanwhile, Justin Herbert and the Oregon Ducks outplayed the Auburn Tigers in Alabama for three quarters, but ultimately fell to their SEC opponent. 

Herbert went 28-for-37 for 242 yards and a touchdown through the air while running back CJ Verdell amassed 76 yards on 14 carries on the ground. Johnny Johnson III and Jaylon Redd accounted for 16 receptions and 162 yards at the wideout spots. 

Due to the strength of their respective opponents in Week 1, there’s reason to believe that Herbert and the Ducks will find success against Nevada, especially since the game will be played at Autzen Stadium. Not only is Herbert’s Heisman candidacy and upper-echelon relevance on the line, but Oregon’s entire season would be destroyed with a loss.

However, are the Ducks worthy of being 24-point favorites? BetQL’s model labels the Wolf Pack (+24) as a ★★★ bet, listing the Ducks as 16-point favorites in our college football model. The Wolf Pack (+1150) are also a ★★★★1/2 moneyline bet to win the game outright. Head over to the "Games" tab for more info.