Oregon State Beavers Game Day Grades – Week 1

Beavers
Oregon State Football Photo Credit: ryan harvey - Under Creative Commons License

The score for Saturday’s game against Ohio State might say different but there are definitely good things that the Beavers showed that they can build on for the rest of the season. The Beaver’s offense showed huge signs of potential explosiveness.

Brian Lindgren, the offensive coordinator, did a great job play calling which helped him find a few playmakers in the process. It came down to the athletes that Ohio State had that the Beavers couldn’t match on either end.

The offensive side of the ball made mistakes that cost them momentum. Just within the first quarter Oregon State drove down the field and loss the ball due to a fumble. They have to capitalize in the red zone with fewer turnovers if they plan on having a chance in their season.

On the defensive side of the ball, their defensive line has to get better. They totaled zero sacks in the passing game while being dominated in the run game. The defensive line needs to hold down the line of scrimmage to allow those linebackers in the second level to make plays which they’re capable of.

Prospect Jonathan Willis had a total 7 tackles with a lot of the time fighting off the Buckeye’s linemen who made it to the second level. The return of prospect David Morris could help the Beavers a lot in the secondary but it is looking unlikely with him fighting injuries (foot). 

Isaiah Hodgins – Wide Receiver

Week 1 Stats: 2 catches 40 yards

Grade: D+

Projected Round: 5th-7th round 

Isaiah Hodgins wasn’t in an easy situation in week one with his starting quarterback getting hurt early in the game. Hodgins only ended the game with 2 catches and 40 yards for 0 touchdowns. In the run game though he was effective. He made a few amazing blocks that helped spring some good runs.

For the Beavers to more effective as a unit he needs to step up more. The two catches that he got were amazing catches. If the Beavers can get him more involved he and Trevon Bradford, who had 6 catches 104 yards and 2 touchdowns, can form a dangerous receiver duo. The Oregon State offense showed a lot of potential by putting up 31 on a top-five team.

Noah Togiai – Tight End

Week 1 Stats: DNP

Grade: DNP

Projected Round: Undrafted

Togiai suffered a foot knee injury during an offseason scrimmage and is set to miss most of September. Oregon State is hopeful he can return by the October 6th game against Washington State.

Jonathan Willis – Linebacker

Week 1 Stats: 7 total tackles, 3 solo tackles

Grade: C+

Projected Round: 5th-7th round

Jonathan Willis was part of a Beaver’s defense that was lacking the athletes to keep up with Ohio State. His stats weren’t bad considering that the Beavers defensive line was allowing the Ohio State offensive line to bully them into the second layer of the defense.

With help from the defensive line, Willis can be more effective showing that he has a good nose for the ball. If the Beavers are going to flip the switch on defense Willis will have to a big part in that. 

Blake Brandel – Offensive Tackle

Week 1 Stats: N/A

Grade: F

Projected Round: 7th-Undrafted

Going against the potential first overall pick in the NFL next season didn’t help Brandel start 2018 on a good note. Nick Bosa, the little brother of 2016 third overall pick Joey Bosa, was too much for Brandel. This was a big challenge going against the most elite pass rusher college football has to offer and he underperformed.

Hopefully, Brandel will get his confidence back this week with quarterback Jake Luton possibly playing this week, the Beavers need Brandel to protect their QB1 whether its Luton or Conor Blount. 

David Morris – S

Week 1 Stats: DNP

Grade: DNP

Projected Round: 6th Round-Undrafted. 

Morris had a strong 2017 season but similar to Togiai, he is unable to play due to an injury. Morris’ timetable is a little more unclear. We’ll keep a close watch on his status.

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