Oregon State tops Utah, 42-34

In a wildly entertaining game Oregon State got back in the win column besting the Utes from Utah, 42-34. BJ Baylor was huge (152 yards & 1 TD). Chance Nolan was efficient and the offense rolled to the tune of 468 total yards. Despite the success on offense the Beavers needed a huge 2nd half and a number of game-changing plays to walk away with the victory. Here’s how it all happened:

FIRST HALF

The game started ominously as Utah scored two touchdowns before the Beavers had realized that the kickoff had already happened. Oregon State starting making noise of their own on offense (the bye week seemed to helped the passing game get in a better rhythm). The first half was brutal though for the Beavs. If it wasn’t for a goal line stand, Utah would have scored on every 1st half possession. The Utes took a 24-14 lead to the break after a bad Chance Nolan fumble set them up with great field position.

SECOND HALF

The start of the 2nd swung all the momentum back to Oregon State. A 10-play, 75-yard touchdown drive cut Utah’s lead to three. And after a nice defensive stop, Riley Sharp blocked Utah’s punt attempt leading to a scoop and score for Luke Musgrave. All of the sudden the Beavers were on top 28-24! The teams traded touchdowns until a Utah missed field goal and then another OSU goal line stand all but sealed the Beaver victory. Utah did get a field goal to make it a one-possession game, but Akili Arnold secured the on-side kick attempt and BJ Baylor picked up a first down to end the game. Oregon State is now 5-2 on the season and knocking on the door of being ranked in the top 25.

The Beavers will face Cal next Saturday at 4:00 PM.