The Oregon Ducks are 10-0 after beating Maryland 39-18 on Saturday evening. This wasn’t the simplest win the Ducks have come by this season, and considering their opponent, perhaps it should’ve been. Oregon struggled with execution throughout the game, but overall, they maintained control from start to finish.
One player who didn’t struggle with execution was Ducks defensive end Jordan Burch. Burch has been Oregon’s best defensive player all season, despite missing three weeks in October. Against Maryland, Burch finished with three tackles, a TFL, two pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a 36-yard run (yes, run), earning him the Ducks Wire Player of the Game.
Burch’s forced fumble came early in the second quarter, and it was the play that finally gave Oregon control of the game. On a third down in Oregon territory, Burch fully extended himself to jar the ball out of Billy Edwards’ hand as he brought his arm back to pass. Ducks DB Brandon Johnson picked up the fumble and returned it 62 yards for the score, putting Oregon up 13-3.
Burch’s other highlight play was his long rush, which came on a fake punt at the start of the second half. Oregon’s offense had stalled once again in its own territory, and Oregon head coach Dan Lanning opted for a fake punt call. Burch’s number was called, and he took the ball 36 yards down the field, re-sparking the Ducks’ offense.
Oregon’s defensive unit stepped up in Burch’s absence so that there was no noticeable shift, but his impact when he is on the field is clear. Oregon has a high ceiling this year, and so much of its success — and potential for success — lies on the shoulders of Jordan Burch.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3]