It looks like like 2012 Rose Bowl game is going to be a shootout. The Oregon Ducks and Wisconsin Badgers are matching blow for blow, with the score tied at 28-all, and neither defense has figured out how to stop the opposing offense.
One thing that Oregon has going for them is that its offense is in sync. In previous bowl games and big non-conference games, it took a while, if ever, to get the offense clicking. It will come down to defense for the Ducks and if they'll be able to match the physicality of Wisconsin for all 60 minutes.
Here's four halftime adjustments the Ducks need to make while in the locker room.
1. Get to Montee Ball earlier
He has had some room to run, but for the most part the Ducks defense is bringing him down after first contact. The Ducks defensive line needs to figure out a way to get penetration and get to Ball in the backfield before he gets his legs churning.
2. Sustain long drives and give the defense time to rest
Everyone knew that the Badgers were going to come out on offense and try to grind out long scoring drives. They've been sticking to their game plan so far and have eaten up a lot of clock. Oregon needs to try to do the same, even though that's not part of their game. The Ducks defense has been on the field a ton this game, and they're going to need more rest on the sidelines in order to match Wisconsin's physicality.
3. Keep feeding LaMichael James the rock
You knew that the Badgers didn't like their matchup on defense against James. He looks patient and and explosive today: a deadly combination for the slow Badgers defense. James is the Ducks' best player and they need to keep giving him the rock and force the Badgers to focus on him. That will open up opportunities for the rest of the playmakers. (Cough, De'Anthony Thomas, cough.)
4. Find a way to incorporate De'Anthony Thomas
Besides James, Thomas is the biggest game breaker on offense. If Oregon can find a way to get him in space, whether it's through the air or on the ground, he's a score waiting to happen. Just look at that 91-yard run at the end of the first quarter.
Lars Eller Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk
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