UPDATE: In a stunning turnaround, Oregon State football overcame a dismal season start to secure a decisive 45-13 victory against Lafayette on July 15, 2023, in Corvallis. The Beavers, who seemed poised for an 0-8 record, channeled the energy of their spirited fans to dominate the second half and finally find joy in their game.
The atmosphere at Reser Stadium was electrifying as a sea of shirtless supporters cheered wildly, but the Beavers initially struggled to translate that enthusiasm into performance. Trailing 13-10 at halftime, Oregon State faced the very real threat of another disappointing loss to an FCS opponent they had paid $500,000 to travel from Easton, Pennsylvania.
However, interim coach Robb Akey rallied his team during the break, leading to a remarkable 35-point surge in the second half. “I’ve seen a lot of smiles on people’s faces,” said quarterback Gabarri Johnson, who played a pivotal role in the comeback. Johnson rushed for 82 yards and threw for 79 yards, contributing to two touchdowns that sparked the Beavers’ offensive revival.
The Beavers turned to senior running back Anthony Hankerson, who exploded for 204 yards and four touchdowns, making a significant impact on the game. “We were playing down to our opponent’s level, and we’re way better than that,” Hankerson emphasized, reflecting on the team’s renewed focus and determination.
A key moment occurred just before the third quarter, as Hankerson led a full-team huddle, energizing his teammates with a passionate speech. This collective spirit proved crucial for Oregon State as they finally embraced the fun of the game, an element missing during their challenging season.
The victory not only marks the Beavers’ first win but is a significant morale boost. “It was cool to see the way they responded,” Akey commented, highlighting the emotional significance of the win for his players. The team now enjoys a bye week to relish their achievement before facing Washington State, creating an opportunity for further momentum.
While one victory doesn’t erase the struggles of the previous games or the overarching challenges facing the program, it signals a potential shift in attitude and performance. Safety Skyler Thomas underscored this sentiment, stating, “The game has got to be enjoyable. If it’s not fun, then there’s no reason to play it at all.”
As the Beavers regroup and reflect on their first win, fans are left hopeful that this newfound joy could spark a resurgence in the latter half of the season. With the coaching search and roster questions looming, the focus now shifts to maintaining this positive energy.
Stay tuned for updates as Oregon State prepares for their next challenge against Washington State.
