Keys to Victory: Oregon State Football Against Texas State Starts Up Front

Containing Texas State’s receivers

Texas State brings several receiving threats. Senior Chris Dawn Jr. has 41 catches this season and was repeatedly able to get open against Boise State last weekend. Beau Sparks is another player to watch. He was among the top receivers in G6 last year and has more than 400 receiving yards this season.

Protecting Braden Atkinson

Oregon State’s offensive line struggled against Fresno, allowing pressure from the edges soon after snaps. That left sophomore quarterback Braden Atkinson little time to find downfield targets, though he was highly accurate when given a clean pocket.

Texas State’s defensive line may not match Fresno’s strength, but it recorded five tackles for loss against top-20 Boise State last Saturday. Oregon State has receiving talent to challenge the Bobcat secondary, provided the line gives Atkinson time.

Making the passing game harder to defend

Oregon State’s passing attack has been most effective when defenses must account for more than Legree. In wins over Montana and Colorado State, Atkinson completed passes to nine different targets in each game.

Despite the loss last Saturday, other receivers made important catches. If DeCorion Temple, Cynai Thomas and Adonis McDaniel contribute, Texas State may find it harder to double Legree.

Avoiding special-teams setbacks

Coach Shephard said before conference play that the Beavers needed greater consistency on special teams. That concern remains after a Fresno kickoff return reached the 45-yard line following an Oregon State field goal that cut the deficit to one score.

The return gave Fresno a short field. Such plays can affect close games, making special-teams execution another factor for Oregon State against Texas State.