I think the player talent has improved since 2010, and the biggest change is Mariota. Oregon has always been a run-heavy offense, and their rushing ability is probably even a bit better than it was in 2010 -- Barner is playing just as well as James did, and Thomas is better than Barner was at that time -- but it is possible to shut down Oregon's rushing game, which Auburn did a good job of in 2010. And I think you're right that in the month of preparation before the NCG, it's possible for a team to do that. But with a legitimately great QB, it doesn't really hurt Oregon that much anymore. Remember, Mariota has the highest passer efficiency in the entire league -- higher than either Manziel or Klein. He has lower total production because the offense is rush-heavy in most games and he's usually subbed out for the entire second-half once the game's been blown out, but throw-for-throw he's as good or better than any QB out there.
Oregon's offensive line is much better than in 2010, and the defense is much better than in 2010 (although Oregon is quite injured at the moment). I think Oregon playing Alabama would hold them to ~20 points and score closer to 40. If you shut down the run, you're on man-to-man coverage and Oregon's receivers will beat you. If you go zone defense against Oregon's spread offense to shut down the pass, you open up seams for rushing. In 2010, Oregon did not have a credible pass-threat the way they do now. Darron Thomas was good, but not great. Mariota is great.
I think the player talent has improved since 2010, and the biggest change is Mariota. Oregon has always been a run-heavy offense, and their rushing ability is probably even a bit better than it was in 2010 -- Barner is playing just as well as James did, and Thomas is better than Barner was at that time -- but it is possible to shut down Oregon's rushing game, which Auburn did a good job of in 2010. And I think you're right that in the month of preparation before the NCG, it's possible for a team to do that. But with a legitimately great QB, it doesn't really hurt Oregon that much anymore. Remember, Mariota has the highest passer efficiency in the entire league -- higher than either Manziel or Klein. He has lower total production because the offense is rush-heavy in most games and he's usually subbed out for the entire second-half once the game's been blown out, but throw-for-throw he's as good or better than any QB out there.
Oregon's offensive line is much better than in 2010, and the defense is much better than in 2010 (although Oregon is quite injured at the moment). I think Oregon playing Alabama would hold them to ~20 points and score closer to 40. If you shut down the run, you're on man-to-man coverage and Oregon's receivers will beat you. If you go zone defense against Oregon's spread offense to shut down the pass, you open up seams for rushing. In 2010, Oregon did not have a credible pass-threat the way they do now. Darron Thomas was good, but not great. Mariota is great.
