The setting: it’s late in the 3rd quarter, and although Cal has been controlling the game, the lead is just 7 points. Cal has just gone three and out, and for the first time since early in the game Oregon State has the ball with a chance to tie the game. The Beavers have driven 70+ yards in two of their last three possessions, and Cal fans are nervous that the tide has turned.

On the first play of the drive, Oregon State runs an RPO play action slant for 15 yards. What follows is a combination of good play from Cal and iffy play-calling and/or execution from Oregon State that swings the game decisively in Cal’s favor.