Oregon State fans got their first look at the 2025 Beavers this past weekend, and it was ugly. The offense never found its rhythm, while the defense allowed Cal to move the ball downfield almost at will. Many expected a stronger start to Trent Bray’s second season as head coach, but optimism around this team may need to be tempered. Much of the preseason buzz surrounded Duke transfer Maalik Murphy, yet the quarterback struggled in his debut within the new system.
After a highly disappointing Week 1 opener against Cal, the Beavers will try to bounce back this Saturday against Fresno State. The matchup gives them a chance to prove that last week’s performance was just a fluke. Oddsmakers have Oregon State as slight -1.5 point favorites across the top football betting apps, which is surprising given how the two teams looked in their openers.
Fresno State sits at 1-1 with a mixed start to the season. They suffered a blowout loss to a much bigger program in Kansas, but bounced back last week with a 42-14 victory over Georgia Southern, giving them plenty of momentum heading into this matchup. Both teams are starting transfer quarterbacks, with the Bulldogs relying on former Temple and Rice QB E.J. Warner. The son of NFL legend Kurt Warner brings more experience than Maalik Murphy, entering the season with 31 career starts. Still, Warner has struggled in both games, throwing a pair of interceptions in each appearance.
Oregon State’s defense will need to capitalize on this trend and force turnovers if the Beavers hope to justify the oddsmakers’ predictions on Saturday. A struggling offense could benefit from a spark provided by the defense, gaining better field position to start drives. That, in turn, allows the team to lean on one of their top playmakers, senior running back Anthony Hankerson. Hankerson, who was added to the Maxwell Award preseason watchlist, is expected to produce at a high level as the team’s clear lead back. The Beavs need to get off to a good start, taking pressure off Murphy.
It’s clear the Beavers’ offense has plenty of talent, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see it start clicking this week. Murphy showed glimpses of why he was a 4-star prospect, using his mobility to extend plays and showcasing his arm talent. Fresno State’s defense struggled against mobile QB Jalon Daniels of Kansas, so the Beavers could look to take advantage of Murphy’s strengths as a runner. In the passing game, senior wide receiver Trent Walker is expected to remain Murphy’s primary target after standing out last week with nine receptions for 136 yards.
Week 2 will be a key indicator of where this team stands. A win would boost confidence for both fans and players, while a loss could signal that the Beavers are in for a long season.
Prediction: Beavers 27, Bulldogs 24
