When the 2024 schedule was announced, the Oregon Ducks’ Oct. 12 game against Ohio State was the Ducks’ most important game, but Oregon vs. Michigan at the Big House was a close second.

Now two-thirds of the way through the 2024 season, this weekend’s game between the Ducks and Wolverines is the antithesis of a major matchup. Michigan has seen a significant drop in performance compared to last year’s national championship team compared to this year, and Oregon is booming.

Oregon shouldn’t have much trouble in this game, but even though the Ducks are the No. 1 team in the country, they can be beaten on any Saturday. Below are my three keys for Oregon to ensure that doesn’t happen and the Ducks get to 9-0.

Disciplined defense

Photo courtesy of Ethan Landa

It’s hard to comprehend or describe how bad Michigan’s offense is in 2024. When Oregon’s defense – which is elite – bends and doesn’t break, they can count on the Wolverines’ offense to make mistakes, especially in the passing game. The Wolverines have averaged 130.8 passing yards per game this season – last in the Big Ten – and they should be significantly fewer against Oregon’s defense.

Dominate time of possession

Photo courtesy of Ethan Landa

Michigan’s abysmal offense can only score competitively if it gets more possession and time with the ball. For this reason, protecting the football and maintaining long drives should be a focus for Oregon. Expect Oregon to pass the ball often because the more time the Ducks spend with the ball, the more likely they are to win.

Take a few shots

Photo courtesy of Ethan Landa

It’s unknown if Michigan’s top cornerback Will Johnson will play in Saturday’s game because of a leg injury, but whether he plays or not, the Ducks should look to get some shots on this Michigan defense. Oregon has no shortage of playmakers, and the Wolverines likely won’t be able to stop the Ducks from being explosive. I want Oregon to take some shots early and put themselves in the driver’s seat.

The story originally appeared on Ducks Wire