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Yesterday Oregon State held it’s pre-season media day before fall camp begins later this week in Bend. Coaches and players were asked questions and we gained some nice insights to many of the questions lingering over the team entering fall camp.
The biggest news of the day was that Sean Harlow, Oregon State's star offensive lineman, is having lingering health problems and his availability for the 2016 season might be in doubt.
Gary Andersen called OL Sean Harlow's availability this season a "wild card." Harlow told me he's been cleared, but will work back slowly.
— Gina Mizell (@ginamizell) August 3, 2016
Gary Andersen went on to say that Sean Harlow could take a redshirt and take the entire season off to allow his ankle injury to fully recover. Harlow had surgery on the ankle in March and has been medically cleared for full contact by the medical staff, so this is surprising and potentially devastating news.
Harlow’s status will certainly be one of the top storylines to follow as the season draws nearer. Back in the spring the offensive line looked to be in good shape with good depth and some talented players returning from last year. Since then, Drew Clarkson, Leo Fuimaono, and Mason Johnson have all been forced to medically retire. That coupled with Sean Harlow’s questionable health status means that Oregon State’s offensive line could be in trouble.
In other news, Seth Collins talked to the media for the first time since his decision to transfer and then come back to Oregon State. By all accounts he seemed extremely upbeat and excited to be with the team. Gina Mizell from OregonLive.com, wrote a great piece about Collins and his wild offseason.
Starting quarterback Darell Garretson also talked with the media and said his year off was beneficial for his growth. He also went on to talk about Oregon State's offense and the many explosive athletes that he'll have the opportunity to throw the ball too. Watch the full video below:
Overall the players and coaches seemed optimistic headed into fall camp. They didn't shy away from the struggles of last season, which ended with 9 straight losses. Instead, they are ready to learn from it and improve on the 2-10 record from a year ago.