Oregon State Football: Will the Beavers reach bowl game in 2021?

How will the offense fare without Jermar Jefferson?

The short answer is the offense should be fine without Jefferson. The Beavers were able to throw the football well, even in their losses. Though Beaver quarterbacks completed less than 60 percent of their last two games, they threw six touchdowns.

Jonathan Smith and the offensive staff believe in their veteran offensive line, which includes two redshirt seniors to assist a running back by committee approach to replace Jefferson’s production. The question for the Beavers is, “who plays quarterback this fall?”

Nebraska transfer Tristian Jebbia started well for the Beavers before a hamstring injury cost him the season. JUCO transfer Chance Nolan stepped in and played well. Add Colorado transfer Sam Noyer, and you have an old-fashioned three-person quarterback battler.

Offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren feels the battle will last well into August. However, Lindgren did like the strides Jebbia made last season before the hamstring injury. “Tristan was on an upward bend, and we’re confident in what he can do around here,” Lindgren says.

Where the Beavers need an alpha is at wide receiver. Oregon State has many solid options, but someone needs to emerge as a true number one option. Florida State transfer Tre’Shaun Harrison has some skills, as does Georgia transfer and former four-star Makiya Tongue.

If a No. 1 option emerges, expect the Beavers offense to be dangerous this fall.