Know the Enemy Q&A: Believe in Beavs
It's Benny. He's so hot right now.
It’s time for our weekly Q&A with our opponent. This time it’s our friend Marcus Russell from Building the Dam.
Do you feel that the Beavers are underrated at this stage of the season?
Absolutely. This past week’s come-from-behind win against Utah was huge. The Beavers are a good football team. Their offense is potent when it’s clicking and they have a better defense then they’ve had in quite some time. Beaver fans are shooting for an 8 or 9 win season at this point.
How likely is it that Oregon ends your Rose Bowl hopes? Civil War score predictions?
Anything can happen in the Pac-12. Oregon State fans are still focused on securing bowl-eligibility for the first time since 2013. It would be brutal if the Ducks shut the door on Oregon State’s bowl game hopes. Way-to-early Prediction? Oregon wins it 37-34
Speaking of Civil War. I believe it’s no longer called that. Is there a new name for the game? Have you guys figure out what you would call the rivalry game if given the power?
No new name has been decided that I’m aware of. Platypus Bowl or Willamette War have been thrown around. If BTD had the power we’d call it the “The Microbrew Hullaboo”.
Which player on offense should Cal fans know about?
Running back, B.J. Baylor, is the name to know. The No.1 offense in the Pac-12 has been effective thanks to Baylor and an impressive offensive line. Everything else that the Beavers do is essentially ancillary to the run game.
Which player on defense should Cal fans know about?
Avery Roberts. The middle linebacker (transfer from Nebraska) is a tackling machine. Look for Roberts to always be around the ball on Saturday.
Who’s one under-the-radar or X-factor player who could swing this game for you?
Tyjon Lindsey. The speedy wide receiver has battled a few nagging injuries, but he’s capable of making a big play everytime he touches the football.
What does Oregon State need to do to win the game?
Protect the ball and establish the run game with B.J. Baylor and company. They also need to find a way to slow down Chase Garbers
What does Cal need to do to win the game?
Force Chance Nolan to beat the defense with his arm. Controlling the clock and getting an early lead would also be tough for the Beavers to deal with.
How do you see the game going?
I feel very similar about this game as I did about the Washington State game. On paper I feel like Oregon State should win. They are having a fantastic season, while their opponent has struggled at times. There’s a reason the Beavers are barely favored though. I think this is going to be a back-and-forth game that will be decided late in the 4th quarter. Like most Pac-12 games nowadays, it could really go either way.
Whom do you most want to punch in the face?
Mario Cristobal, no question.
I really hope the UO-OSU rivalry is rebranded as the Platypus Bowl
Clean take. Beaver fans are like us in being sober and non-pompous about their team. They've had great teams this century, as have we, but no ego complex like the Sucks, U$C, Furd or Fuskies. Gotta like the Beavs, even though they have been Bear killers. How do they act so carnivorous with those teeth? Have you seen the new book out about real beavers called, wait for it...."Eager". Love that title!