Oregon vs. UCLA College Football Week 5 Picks: There’s Potential for a Shootout

The Bye Week Will Help Oregon

Oregon had two very close home wins against Idaho and Boise State and a 49-14 road beatdown against Oregon State on September 14 before their bye week. After watching them adjust against Oregon State, it’s evident that a bit of a “reset” and “refocus” is still in order.

Dillon Gabriel continues to shine, building strong chemistry with his targets. Meanwhile, the ground game is solid, led by Jordan James and Noah Whittington.

However, the offensive line remains a concern. The approach from the first two weeks must be scrapped. Whether it’s a personnel shift or simply a mindset change—realizing they aren’t invincible—the unit must adjust.

On defense, the Ducks performed better against Oregon State, but giving up 34 points to Boise State and letting Ashton Jeanty run all over them (192 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 25 carries) was unacceptable. That side of the ball needs tightening, too.

Ultimately, it’s about refocusing on the goals set at the start of the season. If they execute and dominate as they can, Oregon should reach its full potential. You can bet head coach Dan Lanning won’t allow them to come out sluggish after their bye week.

UCLA Didn’t Show up in the Second Half at LSU

On the national stage, UCLA fell to LSU 34-17 in a highly anticipated non-conference game on Saturday.

In only their second all-time matchup, the Tigers outscored the Bruins 17-0 in the second half. Playing their first-ever game in Louisiana, UCLA had battled back from a 17-10 deficit to tie it 17-17 at halftime.

Bruins’ quarterback Ethan Garbers completed 22 of 36 passes for 281 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. Logan Loya and Rico Flores Jr. led the receiving corps with four catches each, Kwazi Gilmer caught two passes for 61 yards, and Keegan Jones had three receptions for 50 yards.

LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier was impressive, completing 32 of 43 passes for 352 yards and three touchdowns, while Mason Taylor led the Tigers with eight receptions for 77 yards.

In the second half, LSU pulled away, starting with Josh Williams’ two-yard rushing touchdown midway through the third quarter. An 11-play, 92-yard drive early in the fourth, capped by a 35-yard Nussmeier-to-Caden Durham touchdown, extended their lead. Damian Ramos sealed the victory with a 32-yard field goal late in the game.

The Pick

Oregon vs. UCLA has all the makings of a high-scoring affair due to the offensive firepower on both sides and lingering defensive vulnerabilities.

Gabriel is performing at a high level, connecting well with his targets, and the running game, led by James and Whittington, is a consistent threat.

Even though the offensive line has shown cracks, Gabriel’s ability to stretch the field and make plays will keep Oregon moving downfield quickly, especially if the line holds up long enough to give him protection. Oregon’s offensive potential to score in bunches is evident, as shown against Oregon State.

UCLA also has a potent offense. Garbers has demonstrated his ability to lead an efficient passing attack. With reliable targets, UCLA’s offense is balanced and capable of making big plays through the air. UCLA played well in the first half against a tough opponent like LSU, indicating they can score against high-level competition.

Both teams have question marks on defense. Oregon gave up 34 points to Boise State and struggled to contain Jeanty, raising concerns that UCLA can exploit the same gaps in the run defense. Meanwhile, UCLA has shown vulnerability against elite passing attacks—something Oregon’s Gabriel could exploit.

With both offenses firing well and both defenses showing susceptibility to big plays, this matchup could turn into a shootout. Oregon’s high-scoring offense is primed to push the pace, while UCLA has proven they can respond and generate points of their own. If the defenses don’t tighten up significantly, this could be a back-and-forth game with plenty of scoring from both sides.

College Football Pick: Over 55 (-108) at Bookmaker

Over 55 (-108)

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