Oregon State Football: Will the Beavers reach bowl game in 2021?
By Dante Pryor
It’ss not easy to judge Oregon State football by last season. The Pac-12 and the state of Oregon had some of the most restrictive COVID-19 protocols that practice and preparing for games was difficult.
Like most Pac-12 teams, the Beavers had virtually no preseason and little camp to prepare for the season.
As a result, the Beavers went 2-5. In their defense, Oregon State did beat Oregon in the annual rivalry game, and three of their five losses were one-possession games. Their other two losses (Washington State and Arizona State) were two-possession games.
The Beavers are not a doormat anymore. Head coach Jonathan Smith has Oregon State competing in every game against teams with more talent. This season, however, the Beavers look to win some of those one-possession games.
This season, the offense is without running back Jermar Jefferson but has enough talent to replace his production. Defense is where the Beavers need to improve. Improved playmaking (more negative plays and turnovers) could be the difference in close games this season.
Can the Beavers reach the postseason for the first time in nine seasons? Which team will they upset? Here is a preview of the offense, defense, and schedule for the Beavs.