The Pac-10 2008 football preview came out last week. The Beavers have managed a 47-38 record in the last seven years and have won 19 of those over the last two seasons.
For the second year in a row, the Beavers started out 2-3 last season. And for the second straight year, the team made a bowl game in December.
This upcoming season has potential, with the senior leadership on both sides of the ball, but according to the Pac-10 preview, the Beavers also have holes to fill.
Oregon State returns seven starters on offense but has some question marks. The biggest question is who will get the nod at starting quarterback, Sean Canfield or Lyle Moevao? Canfield was the starter last season but after being injured, Moevao came in and performed well in Canfield’s absence.
The Beavers must also find a replacement for Yvenson Bernard. The Beavers have been able to fill the hole in the backfield with ease the last few seasons. Andy Levitre and Jeremy Perry led the offensive line.
James Rodgers returns and showed explosiveness as flanker and out of the backfield last season. Not to mention the return of Sammie Stroughter.
Last season, according to the Pac-10 preview, the defense was considered the strong point for Oregon State. During the off season, eight starters have left on the defensive side of the ball — including the entire front seven. The hardest hit were the linebackers.
While not in a starting role, defensive end Victor Butler saw enough action to lead OSU in quarterback sacks and now has a chance to start for the team and make an immediate impact. In fact, some think he will be a focal point in the trenches.
The secondary for the Beavers is the strong point. The defensive backfield returns three starters from last year led by standout cornerback Brandon Hughes, who some think will be on the list for Pac-10 honors in December. Seniors Al Afalava and Keenan Lewis are also looking for Pac-10 honors.
The 2008 schedule is highlighted by home games against USC, California and Oregon.
Oregon State beat USC, 33-31, two seasons ago to break multiple Trojan winning streaks, including wins in the Pac-10. The Beavers stripped California of a No. 1 ranking last season with a 31-28 win at Cal. The team then topped off the season with a thrilling double-overtime win against Oregon in the Civil War. The Beavers captured the first away victory since 1997.
The Beavers kick off the 2008 season Aug. 28th at Stanford.
Portions of this article were contributed by The Pac-10 2008 Football Season Preview.
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