EUGENE — A rocky start of inconsistency in play and lineup for Oregon‘s offensive line feel like an issue of long ago compared to how the group has performed the last three weeks.

The No. 3 Ducks have not allowed a sack in the past three games, the second-longest active streak in the FBS, entering Saturday’s matchup with No. 2 Ohio State (4:30 p.m., NBC).

“I think they’ve been playing well and been doing their job,” quarterback Dillon Gabriel said. “Obviously we’ve got a bunch of belief and trust in them and what they do. A lot of kudos go to them; they’ve been playing their butt off and they’ll continue to as we maintain focus and keep getting better, that’s been the main goal.”

There’s greater context both to Oregon’s seven sacks allowed in the first two games and its impenetrable pass protection for the past three.

Boise State came in as a talented front seven and sacked Gabriel four times. The Broncos are tied for the nation lead with 4.2 sacks per game.

Conversely, while Oregon did not allow any pressure against Oregon State, the Beavers are tied for second to last nationally in sacks and 115th in tackles for loss. UCLA’s defense also has lacked the ability to create negative plays. Michigan State having just four tackles for loss and no sacks, but some pressure on Gabriel, was the best performance by the offensive line considering the competition.

“Our chemistry is definitely built,” right tackle Ajani Cornelius said. “We got some guys moving around and getting those reps in practice consistently. The gel, the communication with everything we’re doing has improved tremendously. It’s been really good to see it all come together.”

The improved results have coincided with the Ducks sticking with the lineup of Iapani Laloulu at center and Nishad Strother at left guard. Strother has allowed only one pressure and no sacks this season and Laloulu’s snaps, which were the issue that led to him beginning the season at guard, have improved and been on target.

“I’m settling pretty good. I love it,” Laloulu said. “I can play anywhere but playing at center, I think one of the most difficult things about it (is) leading because it’s something I’m working on.”

Pass protection is only part of the improvement up front; Oregon’s run game the last three games is far more productive as well. The Ducks are averaging 5.77 yards per carry the past three games with seven touchdowns compared to 2.96 ypc. and two touchdowns the first two games. UO’s 153 rushing yards is still the most allowed by UCLA this season.

Oregon has converted eight of nine runs on third and three or less, which is tied for seventh nationally.

All of these statistics will be put to the test against the Buckeyes, who rank No. 1 in scoring and total defense, No. 3 in run defense and No. 8 in sacks this season.