The Oregon Ducks are back in action on Friday night for a must-win Game 2 against the USC Trojans, and the stakes couldn't be higher. After a heartbreaking 2-1 loss in 11 innings on Thursday—their second extra-inning collapse in less than a week—the Ducks are looking to bounce back and keep their postseason hopes alive.
Thursday's game was a classic pitcher's duel, with Oregon trailing 1-0 until a lead-off home run in the bottom of the ninth tied it up and sent the game to extras. But the Trojans answered back in the top of the 11th with a solo shot over the right-field fence, and despite several golden opportunities, the Ducks couldn't even the score. It was a tough pill to swallow, especially coming just five days after Oregon dropped a rubber match to No. 1 UCLA on an eighth-inning grand slam.
Now, with both teams jockeying for position in the Big Ten Conference Tournament and hoping to host an NCAA regional, Friday's game has taken on even more importance. A win would force a decisive rubber match on Saturday, while a loss would put the Ducks in a serious hole.
Here's everything you need to know to catch the action:
How to Watch: The game won't be broadcast nationally on TV, but you can stream it live on B1G+. Announcers have not yet been announced.
Game Time: First pitch is set for 6:05 p.m. PT at PK Park in Eugene, Oregon.
Home Field Advantage: The Ducks have been tough to beat at home this season, boasting a 21-5 record at PK Park. The Trojans, meanwhile, have struggled on the road with a 10-11 mark away from USC.
With the postseason picture coming into focus, every pitch counts. Will the Ducks even the series or will the Trojans take control? Tune in to find out.
