EUGENE — Jordan Burch’s presence will undoubtedly be the biggest difference for Oregon in their rematch with Ohio State.
Two days prior to the Ducks’ victory over the Buckeyes on October 12, the team’s star defensive end sustained a meniscus injury during practice. Later, he missed the game at Wisconsin after spraining his ankle against Maryland.
Burch, who has returned and might play a key role in the Rose Bowl, has 30 tackles (11 for loss), 8.5 sacks, six pass breakups, and one forced fumble in nine games.
Oregon coach Dan Lanning remarked, “God doesn’t make many people that look like Jordan Burch.” People are shocked to learn that he weighs 300 pounds when they first encounter him because he looks great for his size. But because of his unwavering work ethic and the fact that we have a lot of depth and a number of players who can play edge positions for us, we can make sure he’s fresh when he takes the pitch. Furthermore, a brand-new Jordan Burch poses a serious risk.
Burch recorded two tackles in the Big Ten championship game against Penn State and three tackles with 2.5 sacks in the victory over Washington.
In nine out of 13 games this season, Oregon (13-0) has only been able to bookend its defensive front with Burch and outside linebacker Matayo Uiagalelei. The Ducks may benefit from matching them up against an Ohio State offensive line that has been jumbled.
“He seems like a freak to me,” Uiagalelei remarked. He’s going to make plays that I don’t think anyone else can.
Due to injuries, Burch has missed some of the most important games during his two years at UO.
Oregon’s pass rush and ability to establish the advantage versus the run were seriously hampered by his knee injury sustained on the first drive of last year’s Pac-12 championship game. Burch’s absence was overcome by the Ducks in a closer-than-necessary victory at Wisconsin and against the Buckeyes earlier in the season.
His joy at being able to participate in the College Football Playoffs is understandable.
Linebacker Jeff Bassa remarked, “He was there for the mental preparation last time, but now he’s physically getting ready for these guys.” “I am aware that he is eager to get things started.”
