nERD: 34.92

The Ducks are that other 2010 team overshadowed by Newton and the Auburn Tigers. They, like Stanford, also ended the season with a nERD at least seven points better than the eventual national champions. Unlike the Cardinal, however, Oregon had an opportunity to prove their superiority.

The Ducks lost to the Tigers 22-19 in the BCS Championship game. But, before that, Oregon had gone 12-0 in the regular season and led the nation with 47 points per game. With 5.58 adjusted yards per rush attempt, they boasted one of the nation's top rushing teams.

Their four-headed monster in the backfield was controlled by LaMichael James, who ran for 1,731 yards and 21 touchdowns. He was complimented by three others with a total of 1,393 yards and 16 touchdowns. Chip Kelly had his offense clicking as well as it ever was.