A new era begins for Oregon State football amid uncertainty

Portland, Ore. (KOIN) - The Oregon State Beavers will begin a college football season unlike any other when they host the Idaho State Bengals on Saturday. This season marks a crucial transition phase for the Beavers, who are now without a major conference affiliation following the collapse of the Pac-12. 

The University of Oregon's move to the Big Ten played a significant role in the Pac-12's demise, leaving Oregon State and Washington State as the only remaining members of the practically extinct conference. Due to these changes, the Beavers will primarily play Mountain West Conference teams this season.

Trent Bray makes his first appearance this weekend as OSU's new coach, after Jonathan Smith left at the end of the previous season. Bray, who previously served as the Beavers' defensive coordinator and safeties coach from 2022 to 2023, is familiar with the program. The Oregon State alumni played linebacker and started 34 of his 49 career games from 2002 to 2005.

The team has undergone major changes, including the departure of several prominent players via the transfer portal, NFL draft, and graduation. Ben Gulbranson, who was expected to start at quarterback, will now be replaced by Gevani McCoy, a redshirt junior transfer. His debut at starting position has been highly anticipated by fans.

Since Oregon State and Oregon are both opening their seasons at home, the excitement will likely cause traffic for I-5, Corvallis, and Eugene. However, the Beavers' 3:30 p.m. match against Idaho State will be broadcast live on Portland's CW network.

Looking ahead, the Beavers' hybrid schedule for this season includes four Power Four opponents, one FCS opponent, and seven Mountain West opponents. But many doubt whether the team's high expectations for the season are warranted given the loss of important players.

The journey begins Saturday, and the fans are certainly ready to see the team take on these challenges in the debut game.

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