Oregon State vs. Arizona: A Clash of Two Heavyweights

As we prepare for the upcoming matchup between the Oregon State Beavers and the Arizona Wildcats, one thing is abundantly clear: these teams are more than their records suggest.

The name on everyone’s lips? Jonah Coleman. Fresh off a stellar performance against Washington State, Coleman isn’t just an asset to Arizona; he’s a game-changer. With three touchdowns on the ground and a total offensive contribution nearing 160 yards, the Oregon State defense will have its hands full. For the Beavers to emerge victorious, they’ll need to keep a vigilant eye on Coleman at all times.

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 07: Arizona Wildcats running back Jonah Coleman (3) runs the ball for a gain during a college football game between the Arizona Wildcats against the USC Trojans on October 07, 2023, at United Airlines Field at The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, CA.(Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire)

But Coleman isn’t the only ace up Arizona’s sleeve. Their arsenal of players that can break into space and deliver big plays gives this team an unpredictable edge. The Wildcats are poised to be the thorn in the side of many, with upcoming games against three ranked teams. And here’s a prediction that might raise some eyebrows: Arizona is primed to upset at least one of those ranked adversaries.

Yet, while the Wildcats have their strengths, the Beavers have been nothing short of phenomenal this season. A special air surrounds the team from Corvallis, and a lot of credit goes to Damien Martinez. His impressive play has been complemented well by Deshaun Fenwick, making Oregon State’s offense a formidable force. Their defense, while it adopts a “bend, don’t break” strategy, has been effective in keeping teams out of the end zone. Between the 20s, they might give a little, but once the opposition reaches the red zone, they’re met with an ironclad defense.

Deshaun Fenwick Oregon State Beavers Running Back
SEATTLE, WA – NOVEMBER 04: Oregon State Beavers running back Deshaun Fenwick (5) runs the ball during a college football game between the Oregon State Beavers and the Washington Huskies on November 4, 2022 at Husky Stadium in Seattle, WA. (Photo by Jeff Halstead/Icon Sportswire)

Oregon State’s defensive secondary deserves a special mention. With 36 interactions with the football, either batting it down or intercepting, they’re proving to be a major hindrance for any aerial attack. Opponents need a well-strategized game plan to counteract this defense.

In this showdown, both teams have a lot on the line. For Oregon State, a victory here would solidify their status as a top contender. As for Arizona, win or lose, their performance this season has been commendable. Anyone claiming to have predicted the Wildcats’ current form is likely bluffing. They’ve truly surpassed expectations and have built a formidable team down in Tucson.

About SHappel

Hosts The Irrational Confidence Podcast with Fresh.

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