The Tigers and the Ducks have never played each other. That makes a lot of sense when you think about it, because culturally these teams are about as far apart as any in the BCS. Auburn is the epitome of traditional Southern football -- in fact, its fans tend to make other SEC fans look like flaky liberals. Everything about Auburn is "hard core" -- the traditions, the passion, the intensity, the controversies with the NCAA.
Oregon, on the other hand, is about as blue as a blue state gets these days, and no part of Oregon is bluer than Eugene. While Auburn's football program grows out of the intensity and loyalty of its fans, Oregon's is largely the product of one brilliant alumnus, Phil Knight of Nike. While Auburn has had the same uniforms for decades, Oregon changes uniforms -- and even team colors -- every game.
If intensity and fan loyalty made the difference, Oregon wouldn't have a chance. No one in America will care about any sporting event all year as much as Auburn fans care about this game. But one important lesson that we are taught by sports is that caring alone isn't enough. At the highest levels, you need talent as well. Auburn has Cam Newton, of course, and he is a host in and of himself. But Oregon has lots of talent -- wave after wave of really fast guys who can break a game open. Unless Oregon makes a bunch of turnovers, they should be good for at least 40 points tonight. And, in my opinion, that will be good enough for the title.
good writing.
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