Pac-12 Football: Each team’s most important newcomer for 2020

When you think of the unprecedented times we are in, it is not easy to predict which players are going to come in and contribute from day one. Kids who have been in junior college have a chance to come in a play day one.

Alton Julian has the size and skill to step in and play day one for the Beavers. At 6-3 he also has the versatility to plays some safety as well. Along with his size, Julian has excellent ball skills. This is due in part to playing a lot of wide receiver in high school. Julian high-points the ball and breaks on routes well.

Julian is a willing tackler; he might even be considered a bit of a thumper. He wraps up and rarely leads with his shoulder. Most important, Julian adds depth to a defensive backfield that desperately needs some.

He will also help a pass defense that gave up almost 280 yards passing per game.

Jonathan Smith has done a masterful job improving the offense in Corvallis. If the Beavers want to take the next step and get to a bowl game for the first time since 2013, the defense needs to improve.