Big Finish

Tonight, No. 1 Auburn will face No. 2 Oregon in the BCS National Championship game in what may go down as one of the most exciting games in years. Both offenses offer full throttle, big play potential, leaving many questioning the defense’s ability to keep up. Heisman winner QB Cam Newton and RB LaMichael James headline the matchup, and while both offer game-changing ability, one can’t ignore the other play makers both teams possess.

Of course, Auburn QB Cam Newton brings the most game-changing potential with his ability to beat you with his feet and his underestimated arm. If Newton can get into the second level of the Duck’s defense, Oregon’s secondary won’t have trouble catching him, but they might need a wrecking ball to bring him down. At 6’6”, 250 lbs., Cam Newton looks more like LeBron James than a college quarterback. Along with bringing home the national championship, Newton hopes to break the “Heisman curse.” Only 3 of the past 10 Heisman winners have gone on to win their bowl game the same year. RB Mark Ingram and QBs Matt Leinart and Carson Palmer were the 3 who did not fall victim to the dreaded curse.

With all the focusing seemingly on Cam Newton, look for a big game from freshman RB Michael Dyer. Dyer averaged just under 6 yards per carry, while quietly putting up 950 rushing yards and 5 TDs. RB Onterio McCalebb averaged more than 8.5 yards per carry with 9 TDs. With all of Auburn’s running talent, many overlook the great group of receivers the Tiger’s have at their disposal. WR Darvin Adams had 7 catches for 217 yards and 2TDs in the SEC title game and WRs Terrell Zachery and Emory Blake add big play opportunities down the field with TDs of 80 and 94 yards, respectively. The defense is anchored by DT Nick Fairley, who is one of the SEC’s roughest, and some say dirtiest, player.

Oregon’s LaMichael James looks to cap his record setting year with a national championship. His 21 rushing TDs and 1682 rushing yards are what makes the Oregon offense go. Outside of James’ 21 rushing TDs, 6 other players have rushed for a total of 21 TDs. The Ducks are run by young QB Darron Thomas who has thrown for over 2500 yards and 28 TDs and only 7 INTs. Oregon’s 29 receiving TDs match that of Auburn, but with a more balanced receiving group. WR Jeff Maehl led the Ducks with 68 receptions for 943 yards and 12 TDs, but 15 other receivers combined for over 1800 yards and 17 TDs, proving QB Darron Thomas isn’t afraid to share the wealth. LB Casey Matthews leads the Duck’s defense who ranked 12^th in points allowed with 18.4.

Auburn’s size advantage may come into play. While Oregon is clearly the faster team, speed doesn’t matter much when you’re continually being pounded by bigger, stronger opponents. The Tigers’ offensive line outweighs Oregon’s defensive front by about 45 lbs. per player. If the Ducks can’t find a way to get to QB Cam Newton, this may be a track meet from the start. It has been more than a month since either team has played in an actual game, so the team that is able to shake off the rust first holds the advantage. The score should remain close, with more lead changes than Journey possible.

My prediction:  38-35, Auburn