I've seen Oregon State pop up as a sleeper playoff candidate based off of last season and Uiagalelei transferring, with 247 being the latest to mention them. The argument seems to be that a quality QB instantly elevates them to contenders and I just don't see it.
Last year, they overachieved with a strong ground game and defense, but they've lost 5 of their top 7 tacklers from last year, including Omar Speights who was their top defender. Omotosho is a nice get in the portal to boost their pass rush, but when the linebacking core is gutted, it's hard to see the defense be anywhere near as effective.
I guess the argument is that the offense will offset the defensive losses, but they also lost their top 2 wr's, who combined for 82 catches for 921 yards. They're left with 2 5'8" WR's who combined for 50 catches and some mediocre TE's. The running game will be strong again, but how does Uiagalelei elevate a passing game with no targets? They don't have anyone proven coming through the portal.
Overall, OSU feels very overrated at the moment. What am I missing that makes them a dark horse for the conference championship?
Last year, they overachieved with a strong ground game and defense, but they've lost 5 of their top 7 tacklers from last year, including Omar Speights who was their top defender. Omotosho is a nice get in the portal to boost their pass rush, but when the linebacking core is gutted, it's hard to see the defense be anywhere near as effective.
I guess the argument is that the offense will offset the defensive losses, but they also lost their top 2 wr's, who combined for 82 catches for 921 yards. They're left with 2 5'8" WR's who combined for 50 catches and some mediocre TE's. The running game will be strong again, but how does Uiagalelei elevate a passing game with no targets? They don't have anyone proven coming through the portal.
Overall, OSU feels very overrated at the moment. What am I missing that makes them a dark horse for the conference championship?