BeaversEdge.com has attended every practice since the Beavs hit the practice field to begin fall camp back in late-July. Below are the five biggest things that we've learned.
1. This might be the best RB corps in school history
Last season, Oregon State running backs Ryan Nall and Artavis Pierce were a sensational duo. However, due to injuries, the Beavers lacked having true depth. Now, OSU has a plethora of running backs that all can consistently play at a high level. With the addition of former five star Thomas Tyner, TCU transfer Trevorris Johnson, and true freshman Calvin Tyler, this could very well be the most talented running back group OSU has ever had.
Tyner got back to being his old self over fall camp, and Johnson had to adjust to the different speed of PAC 12 play but seems to be ready to go. In addition, Tyler put on display his play making ability. With Nall, Pierce, and Tyner leading the way, this could possible be the most dangerous backfield in the conference.
2. Jake Luton was the best quarterback
The transfer quarterback from Ventura CC came in during OSU’s winter workouts and was instantly the favorite for the job. Luton's leadership, poise, moxy, and natural quarterback ability is something that Gary Andersen hasn’t had at the quarterback position consistently since his arrival. Luton has had his ups and downs throughout fall camp but has consistently improved week by week. After OSU’s latest scrimmage, he said that this is “His team, and his guys” and to me, that echoes the confidence of a true leader who is ready to take this team to the next level. It’s now up to Luton to show the coaches and fans that he is the right guy for the job by playing well for the Beavers on Saturdays.
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BeaversEdge Mailbag - August 21
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3. True freshmen made an impact
One of the more underrated aspects of OSU’s 2017 fall camp is the number of true freshman players who have adapted to the college game much quicker than expected. While many guys have impressed as true freshman, there is a selected group that is expected to contribute right away. Those players are Isaiah Hodgins, Isaiah Dunn, Calvin Tyler, David Morris, and Kesi Ah-Hoy. There are many more true-freshman that have made an impression in fall camp, but these five guys are expected to play right away and can play a key role in OSU’s success in 2017.
4. Kevin Clune is using multiple defensive sets
We began to see back in spring that the Beavers were going to be a multiple style defense in year two under Kevin Clune. The Beavers are deeper, stronger, and more versatile this season compared to years past, and I believe that their strengths will be on display this season. The Beavers have been experimenting with several defensive looks that resemble a 3-3-5, 2-4-5, amongst others.
The one constant here is that the Beavers are not married to a single scheme and are going to be multiple to confuse offenses and constantly create pressure, which is what Andersen has wanted to do more this compared to his first two seasons. Andersen mentioned that he wants his defense to have a combined 60 sacks and turnovers, and that all starts with getting pressure on the quarterback and making his internal clock move faster. So far in practices, the Beavers have shown flashes of being a top-tier defensive unit, but it’s hard to say where they stand until they play someone else.
5. OSU's team chemistry is at an all time high under Gary Andersen
Andersen is constantly preaching how important team chemistry is. With a trip to Bend and bonding throughout fall camp, the chemistry has been built. This team looks closer than it has ever been. It's apparent that there is a strong bond between everyone. Players and coaches look committed to the Gary Andersen mindset.
Everyone wants the same thing - to get to a bowl game and win it. The benefits of team chemistry are very simple. If everyone is willing to put everything on the line for one another then the wins will start piling up. A team's chemistry proves to be one of the strongest assets a team can have. With a team this close, it's going to be fun watching them battle and overcome any adversity together.
