3 Bold Predictions for Oregon vs Auburn's Ranked Showdown in Week 1

The college football world will be treated to one of the best non-conference matchups of the season when perennial SEC West contender Auburn squares off against Pac-12 favorites Oregon and their star quarterback Justin Herbert. As the highly-anticipated duel between Gus Malzahn's post-Jarrett Stidham Tigers and Mario Cristobal's reloaded Ducks inches closer, expect a couple star players to live up to their billing.

3. Kayvon Thibodeaux Records a Sack in His First Game

The No. 1 recruit in the country last season, Kayvon Thibodeaux chose Cristobal and the Ducks over schools like Alabama and Georgia, and has since locked down a starting defensive end spot. While Auburn's offensive line, led by future NFL player Prince Tega Wonogho, remains intimidating for a smaller Ducks defense, Thibodeaux's blend of size and speed should be good enough to get to freshman quarterback Bo Nix at least once.

2. Derrick Brown Forces at Least 1 Turnover

Derrick Brown is a lock to go in the first round of the NFL Draft provided he stays healthy. The 325-pound defensive tackle has the agility of a player 50 pounds lighter without sacrificing power. While Oregon's o-line features four seniors and at least two future NFL bodies in senior right tackle Calvin Throckmorton and sophomore left tackle Penei Sewell, but Brown is so destructive a force that he should be able to get acquainted with Herbert or running back CJ Verdell once or twice.

1. Justin Herbert Leads Oregon To a Win With 3 Touchdowns

Oregon's offense isn't perfect, as they lost wide receiver Dillon Mitchell to the pros and Verdell as the lone running option isn't super inspiring. However, Justin Herbert might be the first player to hear his name called in the draft next year. At 6-6 and 230 pounds with touch, a whip of an arm, and the ability to run effectively, Herbert should be able to leave the Ducks to a win on the back of 3 touchdowns, one of which will come on the ground.