Washington State Cougars vs Oregon State Beavers Predictions

Eshelman faces a difficult first start

Oregon State Beavers On SI, Sports Illustrated's team publication, reports that Washington State will start redshirt freshman Owen Eshelman at quarterback. Oregon State allows 22.0 points per game and leads the Pac-12 by holding opponents to 326.3 total yards per game, making Eshelman's assignment the clearest reason to favor the Beavers.

Oregon State enters its home game at Reser Stadium with a 4-2 overall record and a 2-0 mark in Pac-12 play. Washington State is 1-5 overall and 0-2 in the conference. Beavers freshman receiver Jesse Legree also leads the FBS with 932 receiving yards and 12 touchdown catches.

Oregon State's secondary isn't at full strength. Starting cornerback TC Crandall is unavailable, while defensive back Isaiah Houi is questionable. That uncertainty matters when the Beavers must win by at least 19 points to cover. It doesn't, by itself, make Washington State a worthwhile bet.

The price calls for a pass

Oregon State is the likely winner, but a -1000 moneyline demands too much risk for the return. The Beavers' record and defensive production also make Washington State difficult to back at +650.

There isn't enough information about scoring patterns or pace to support the 52.5 total. The available evidence also doesn't show that either side has value at Oregon State -18.5, so the betting lean is Pass.