A variable in a given situation that could have the most significant impact on the outcome is referred to as an X-Factor.   Guessing what these possible anomalies are is not an easy task, but we'll give it a try.

When talking about Oregon and how they have progressed this season, it doesn't take long for Tyler Dorsey to come up.  You may have read my Oregon preview where I said it's hard to try to shut down the Ducks by concentrating on one player and I stand by that. But if there is a player who could go off, it may be Dorsey who will be playing in front of family members and friends galore. The reason for so many backers is that Dorsey is a Los Angeles native.

Dorsey is a long, 6-4 guard who was recruited by Duke.  He eventually chose the Ducks in that they would use him as a shooting guard, where the Blue Devils had eyes on him to run the point.  More often than not, players like to step up against those who recruited them and Dorsey can do this minutes from his home town on a national stage.

In Dorsey, Oregon has a kid who I see as the possible X-Factor in this game in that he can score the ball in varying ways. It will take a solid effort from the likes of Matt Jones to contain the talented freshman.

I am going to stay with a freshman in naming the X-Factor for Duke in this game. The Blue Devils have a California native on their roster as well in Chase Jeter.  While he is in the rotation as the seventh man or second player off the bench, the make up of this contest will give him minutes.

Jeter is running his  own race with concern to development.  He is barely 18 years old and is still adjusting to the college game.  In my opinion, Jeter has a bright future at Duke and he can start his ascent with some solid minutes in his home state.

Playing in California could aid in Jeter's comfort level and his size and length could help Duke against the long and lean Ducks.  The freshman has had some key moments down the stretch this season for Duke and is quick off his feet.  With his ability to grab some timely boards and quick put backs on the offensive, his minutes could be a difference maker.

There are many more X-Factors at play when Duke takes on Oregon in Anaheim tomorrow evening.  But keep a close eye on the play of Tyler Dorsey and Chase Jeter, for their success in this game might be the edge their team needs to move to regional championship.