Oregon State vs. Idaho State: Preview/Prediction

As the clock ticks closer and closer to the start of football season. We continue our pre-season game previews and predictions. We move on from the season opener versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers and look forward to Idaho State.

Game 2: Idaho State

Oregon State squares off versus the Idaho State Bengals on September 17th in Corvallis. Oregon State’s home opener will unveil their improved facilities and new beer garden that have long been under construction at Reser Stadium. The Beavers have an early bye week after the season opener against Minnesota and will have plenty of time to prepare for Idaho State.

Idaho State will be Oregon State’s easiest opponent by far, in 2016. The FCS team from the Big Sky conference struggled to a 2-9 overall record last year. With blow out losses to FBS schools like Boise State (52-0) and UNLV (80-8). The previous and only match-up between these two schools came back in 2007 which Oregon State won 61-10.

Idaho State also has fellow Pac-12 school Colorado on their schedule this season. They play Colorado, in Boulder, the week leading up to the Oregon State game. That game on September 10th, should provide great footage for Oregon State’s staff and players. It will also be a good opportunity early in the season to see how Oregon State measures up against Colorado as they both play the same opponent in consecutive weeks.

Idaho State will be a major underdog against Oregon State but they will still provide unique challenges for the Beavers. One player to keep an eye on is Tanner Gueller. Idaho State’s talented quarterback holds the keys to the Bengal’s offense. The sophomore saw action in 10 games last year and was quickly named the starter after the season causing last years starting quarterback to transfer. And by all accounts he’s had an impressive offseason and will lead a much improved Bengals offense. Oregon State will also need to watch out for Hayden Stout. The linebacker recorded 113 tackles as a junior and returns to lead the Bengals revamped defense as a senior.

Idaho State should be much improved compared to last season’s 2-9 campaign and will be playing without pressure as the underdog. Regardless, Oregon State will be the more talented team and should put the game away as early as possible. Doing so will give the starters time to rest and give younger players valuable game experience.

Prediction:

The Beavers will make light work of the visiting Bengals and jump out to an early lead. Oregon State wins it big 56-7.