Although the Oregon-Utah game may not be the most exciting matchup on television this weekend, both teams have a lot of animosity built up for different reasons, which may make for a closer game than expected.

The No. 6 Ducks are coming off a painful loss to No. 4 Stanford that crushed their dreams of appearing in the BCS national championship game. Oregon is now determined to receive a BCS bowl bid of some sort with victories in their final three regular season games, including this weekend’s against the Utes.

Utah is currently 4-5 overall and 1-5 in the Pac-12. Its single conference win came when it took on the Cardinal, as they managed a 27-21 victory. Since, Utah has lost its past three games, but hope to bounce back and upset another top-ranked team.

Here are the matchups to watch:

Oregon’s quarterbacks vs. Utah’s defensive front

Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota leads the Pac-12 in pass efficiency while still maintaining zero interceptions this season as he continues to be a top candidate for the Heisman trophy. Against Stanford, however, Mariota struggled for the majority of the game. Oregon had four fumbles on the night, two of which were recovered, two picked up by the Cardinal. These sort of struggles may be a problem for the Oregon pocket against the Utes, as well. Utah is ranked first in the Pac-12 in defensive sacks (33) and plan to push their way to Mariota.

Oregon key: The nerves may not be as high in Saturday’s matchup for Mariota, which is clearly an advantage for the sophomore. In the Pac-12, Mariota has attempted 259 passes and completed 164 of those, averaging 281.2 passing yards per game. He also is known for his strong rushing game when no teammates are open, averaging 55 yards per game. If Mariota can find efficient movement within the pocket and make quick, smart decisions to pass or rush, he will have no problem getting away from the Utah defenders.

Utah key: Utah will have to force its way to Mariota to make big plays for the defense. An important player to watch out for is defensive end Trevor Reilly, who leads the Pac-12 in sacks with seven. In order to cause distress on Mariota, the defenders will have to break through Oregon’s offensive line.

Advantage: Oregon

Oregon’s running game vs. Utah’s secondary

Oregon excels in its offense while Utah is more efficient in its defense. The Ducks have many options when trying to rush the ball forward, but they have to make it past the Utes’ defensive backs before they can make a successful play to add points to the scoreboard.

Oregon key: Oregon has to utilize its different options in order to gain yardage and eventually score touchdowns. Byron Marshall is the front runner for Oregon’s rush option, averaging 102.8 yards per game, fourth in the Pac-12. De’Anthony Thomas has had limited playing time this season after injuring his ankle, but he continues to be one of the faster players on the Oregon team. If all else fails, Mariota can rush for a first down or even a touchdown, as he ranks ninth in the Pac-12 in rushing touchdowns.

Utah key: Utah will need to watch the Oregon rushers, including Mariota, as they make their quick plays to score. Utah will especially need the help of defensive linebacker Jason Whittingham, who averages 8.6 tackles per game. The senior will especially be the one to look for as he will push his way to make a hard tackle to make stops on the Oregon offense.

Advantage: Oregon

Follow Lindsey Tucker on Twitter @lindseyetucker