2007 Oregon State Beavers College Football Predictions


June 5, 2008 | Posted By Larry Cook

There are not many questions on offense for the Beavers, but there is a big one lingering at the quarterback position. Oregon State has to replace Matt Moore and it won’t be easy. Sean Canfield, a strong-armed lefty pocket passer, has been groomed for this moment for the past two years. He has good numbers in completing 28 of his 45 attempts in his career. But he won’t be handed the job. Lyle Moevao performed well in the spring to challenge Canfield. This junior college transfer brings a different dimension, being more mobile and capable of scrambling.

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Yvenson Bernard is one of the best tailbacks in the land and he will be the primary focus to the attack. The tough senior was Pac-10 first-team last year. Sammie Stroughter was a third-team All-American at receiver. He is a multi-purpose player, doubling as a punt returner. Antohony Brown is at flanker with plenty of experience under his belt over the past three seasons. Brondon Powers will be lining up at slot. There are four returning starters along the line, including Lindy’s top-rated guard in junior Jeremy Perry. Sophomores Howard Croom and John Reese are fighting for the starting tight end job to help the running attack and excel as an outlet for Canfield or Moevao, whoever gets the job.

Linebacker is the heart of this defense that ranked third nationally in sacks and ninth in tackles for loss last year. The senior trio of Alan Darlin, Derrick Doggert and Joey LaRocque form a starting group that is easily among the best in the country. They are speedy to cover all over the field and strong enough to step in and fill holes in their run defense. Junior cornerbacks Keenan Lewis and Brandon Hughes are back for a third season as starters. Coye Francies is their reserve and could easily start if called upon. Junior free safety Al Afalava brings experience to this corps as well.

The team used a nickel package last season, allowing an assortment of athletes to gain experience. Bryan Payton and Daniel Drayton are ready to start at strong safety, while Gerald Lawson could play safety or corner. Senior end Jeff Van Orsow and tackle Curtis Coker are returning starters. Dorian Smith took over at the other end position by the end of last season and still ended up leading the team in sacks with nine. He could have a great 2007 season. There is plenty of talent ready to step in on the line and the competition in the fall will help bring out the best in these players.

Expectations are high in Beaver country after finishing 10-4 with a win in the Sun Bowl over Missouri last season. There is good reason with 17 returning starters. Last season’s success could be duplicated as long as the running game, defense and special teams help the new quarterback while he gets his feet wet. The Beavers could start slow, but should finish strong again. Look for Oregon State to be a sleeper in this conference.

Odds to Win BCS:
Sportsbook:  200-1
Bodog:          200-1
BetUS:         +1200 (Field)

Odds to Win Pac 10:
BetUS:         +1500

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