Go Beavs.

People seem to think this is the Beavs’ best shot to win this game, but with maybe three Pac-12 level defenders and a thin rotation of MWC level talent behind the starters, it’s hard to pick them. I guess the rationale is Cal is bad, OSU is at home, etc. That would make sense if we were serviceable. Instead of rising to the occasion, I see the Beavs playing down to Cal’s level. Expect an ugly, low scoring game with two inept teams where the Beavs figure out a new way to lose to a slightly “less bad” team.

Cal 24, Beavs 20

Really hope to be wrong because the program has to show recruits there is a future here by snagging a win or two somewhere.

Have at it, gentlemen. Any topic goes. My question: what are you looking for with the rest of this season? For me it’s off the field with recruiting. Looking for defensive difference makers at both the prep and Juco levels. On the field, not much…maybe to see if Jefferson can somehow get more National exposure and Heisman talk (long shot/impossible, I know). Other than that, just continuing to play hard and fight even though they’re clearly undermanned (Smith is the General Custer of coaches).

Make sure to get in on the BeavRecruiting giveaway here.

We are all good with hosting, but if anyone would like to donate to AB on this slow week, here is that button.

Go Beavs

Just got around to watching the Smith interview (located here).

He definitely looks frustrated…a lot like GA did by game 5. He now seems like a mixture of GA (frustration, impatience) and Riley (neat deal/folksy talk). Like him better than both so not really knocking him, just observing the reality that Oregon State mentally breaks coaches down. We saw GA break down week by week. Smith has looked more frustrated each week. What happens by season’s end when we likely don’t win another game?

That he says it’s not a talent issue is a lie. It’s both a talent and depth issue. Do think he’s correct that tackling is a confidence issue, but it’s also an attitude thing. We let opponents drag our guys into the end zone, even if we have several guys swarming the ball. That’s just like of attitude or “swagger”.

Anyone find the worst defense in D1 history? I’m curious if we’re going to set a new futility mark.

Washington State 49, Oregon State 24

Our only hope is the “Edwards Factor”, which is not unlike the Riley factor.

In reality, another Saturday spent rooting against the Ducks for Beav fans.

38-21 ASU