The Ducks are hoping to pull an upset off on Saturday night. Although it depends on how you classify upset.

Currently Oregon is favored to win over Washington State on Saturday. However the Cougs are the higher rated team. I'm not sure which one makes more sense, but typically I don't bet against Vegas.

Oregon's defense is going to be put to the test Saturday night. Which is going to be a big part of this matchup.

Can Oregon keep Wazzu from scoring at will and get points on the board with a backup quarterback?

Big questions indeed.

Here's the five.

1. Tyree Robinson - I have listed Robinson several times and he was primed for destruction against Cal. This might be his most critical game yet. It won't surprise me to see Robinson left as the single safety with Wazzu looking to go vertical. It's going to be critical for him to be in position and not let Washington State receivers get behind him to keep this one in check.

2. Thomas Graham - Arrion Springs is not allowing anything to be thrown his direction. He's not having any of it. And Thomas Graham really isn't getting picked on either. Washington State is not especially talented at receiver. They are solid but don't have any real game-breakers. If Oregon can lock up Falk's favorite targets consistently, that defensive line should have time to get to him.

3. Henry Mondeaux - He has been very good all season long. In fact I dare call him vastly under rated this season. When Mondeaux is playing well and drawing double-teams, he's making life easier for Jelks and Hollins enjoying single blockers. If he can hold the point of attack along with Jordon Scott, that's going to be a HUGE piece of this game for Oregon.

4. Jake Hanson - I've listed him before and with good reason. We know the left side of the offensive line can do its part. And last week the right side did too. The real unsung hero is Hanson who does a lot of dirty work for this team. If he can keep Hercules off whoever is Oregon's starting quarterback, that's going to be the most critical part of this offense for Oregon.

5. Alie or Burmeister - No team (other than Bama) is able to win with shoddy QB play. Oregon doesn't need either of these two to win the game, just manage it. If they can protect the ball and make smart decisions, that will be enough to keep Oregon in the game.