Opponent Preview: Portland State University

After a 58-27 collapse to the Colorado State University Rams last Saturday, the Oregon State Beavers are taking a break from FBS combatants as they prepare for the FCS team, Portland State University Vikings.

Overview:

While the Vikings' offense had a lackluster performance last week against Brigham Young University, their defense was able to keep the game within reach, up until late in the fourth quarter. Portland State also held the Cougars to 20 points and held them to zero touchdowns in the second half of the contest.

Player to watch: Charlie Taumoepeau

As noted earlier, PSU’s offense had an abysmal performance, but Taumoepeau had an impressive performance. The 6'3 Sophomore tight end lead all receivers, hauling in 6 passes for 73 yards. No other receiver for the Vikings amassed 25 receiving yards for that game.

Keys to the Game:

• Feed Ryan Nall the Ball

Last week, BYU running back, Squally Canada amassed a career high 98 rushing yards and scored on a goal-line run. OSU's dominating running-back and Maxwell award watch-list recipient could be a nightmare for the Vikings' front-seven

• Let Luton Lob it up

Although PSU held Cougars' quarterback, Tyler Magnum to under 200 yards passing, their secondary still gave up big plays, allowing three receptions that went for over 25 yards. Beavers' quarterback, Jake Luton showed promise in his deep ball accuracy, with a 39 yard touchdown, and two other passes of over 30 yards against Colorado State. If Ryan Nall and the offensive line establishes a run game, it will open up the playbook for deep shots and play action passes for Luton to attempt.

• Don't Get Gassed

After trailing by four points at halftime, OSU ran out of fuel and gave up 34 second half points, 24 of them coming in the fourth quarter. While it's not expected for the Beavers to let this game get out of reach, allowing a second-half rally of any kind could be detrimental to the team’s morale.

Suffering a beat-down is difficult to overcome, but a strong performance in a home-opener is essential in moving on.