On Offense:

-I'm excited to see Evan Stewart back healthy along with a healthy DAK. Injuries have sunk our last two playoff runs and entire defenses should have to game plan around one of these guys, but both along with McClellan? This could be Oregon's best group of receivers top to bottom ever!

-OLine cohesiveness. I don't expect perfection against a talented Bronco team, but I don't want to see a repeat of 2 years ago.

On Defense:

-Inside Linebacker Instincts. Our ILB strengths have been speed and pass coverage. We will have a new defensive "QB's" this year. Our defensive line should occupy everyone up front to keep the ILB's clean. How well can they "sniff out" plays? Do they have the natural instincts to carry us deep into the playoffs?

-3rd down. Can we get off the field? Madsen is a veteran QB, so this will be a solid Game 1 test for our defense.

-Safeties. I think we're all looking forward to the debut of Koi Perich, but how about Carl Williams IV coming over from Baylor along with 5-star phenoms Trey McNutt (injured last year) and Jett Washington? Will they make immediate impacts this year?

Special Teams:

-Making field goals. Please let us have a solid kicker this year!!

-Punt Returner 1. Who gets the gig? I hold my breath on every punt catch. This player has the most trusted hands on the team.

I want to get a read on how physical our defense will play this year, and whether the O line gives DM an opportunity to throw downfield from the pocket.

Then, find out early who is QB2.