Colorado Edges Oregon Thanks to Andre Roberson

By marcvilas
Ron Chenoy- USA TODAY Sports

In a game between the two over-looked programs of the Pac 12 a defensive battle worthy of a Big 10 game ended with Colorado upsetting number 19 Oregon in Eugene.  The Buffaloes, 15-7 and 5-5 in the Pac 12, have been somewhat of a disappointment this season while the Ducks have surprising wins over the two darlings of the conference, UCLA and Arizona. However, last night the roles were reversed and Andre Roberson helped lead his team to a much needed victory.

Roberson was a beast on the boards, finishing with 13 rebounds, and was called on to guard multiple positions through out the game.  This was yet another standout defensive effort for the 6 foot 7 inch junior forward.  He is leading his team in rebounds, steals and blocked shots per game this season, and is ranked in the top 7 of each category in the PAc 12. His length and energy help force E.J Singler into 6 turnovers, over three more than his average per game.

Both teams played outstanding defense, with neither team shooting over 36% from the field, but Roberson was clearly the defensive star of the game. His length and athleticism make him an interesting prospect for the NBA, but his lack of offensive game is holding him back from greatness. Despite his offensive short-comings, Roberson did make the deciding basket with :29 seconds left in the game to help edge the Ducks 48-47.

With the loss Oregon drops to second in the Pac 12 and Colorado now moves into fifth in the conference with a key game versus Arizona coming up next week.  Roberson and the Buffaloes lost a controversial game in Tucson to open Pac 12 play and will be looking for revenge against the Wildcats.  The will need Roberson’s defense to help slow the Wildcat tandem of Mark Lyons and Solomon Hill. Tad Boyle, one of the better coaches around, will have a great defensive game plan.

 

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