Certain comparisons are inevitable but limited in their usefulness. Darron Thomas often got pegged as the next Dennis Dixon. I'm just glad he's the first Darron Thomas. 28 tds and 3000 yards of total offense are all the credentials he needs.
Facing Cam Newton it's certain analysts will bring up Pryor and last year's Rose Bowl. After all, they're both tall, athletic and black. But there are several significant points of distinction between the two. Auburn uses Newton far more in designed runs. Pryor, who is two notches faster than Newton, not quite as tall or big, hurt the Ducks improvising, on quarterback scrambles. This year's Duck defense is faster, more varied, and deeper. If they succeed in holding Newton to 266 yards passing, 72 yards rushing, and 26 points, Oregon will win the game handily. Auburn's defense won't contain this year's Quack attack the same way OSU did. There's more resolve on this year's team, and better leadership. No one on this team is content merely to be going to the bowl.
Oregon's defense matches up really well with Newton and his offense. Their multiple pressure and coverage schemes will challenge him to make reads and quick decisions. They'll pursue and gang tackle as well as anyone he faced in the SEC.
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