California Golden Bears vs Oregon State Beavers Picks and Predictions October 26th 2024

Oregon State, Cal Continue Rivalry as Nonconference Foes

Longtime Pac-12 rivals Oregon State and California will renew their rivalry this Saturday, though this time as nonconference opponents. The Beavers (4-3) and Golden Bears (3-4) are set to clash in Berkeley, Calif., with both teams eager to snap their respective losing streaks.

Historical Rivalry Takes on a New Twist

These two teams have faced off 75 times since their first meeting in 1917, with Cal holding a slight edge in the all-time series at 38-37. However, Oregon State trimmed that lead last year with a thrilling 52-40 victory in Berkeley, a game that was part of their Pac-12 schedule.

This year, with both teams in different conference situations, the rivalry takes on a new nonconference flavor. The game is part of a two-year agreement between the schools to continue their football clashes. Oregon State is competing as an independent this season, while Cal has entered the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Oregon State’s Narrow Defeats and Offensive Strength

The Beavers enter the game on a two-game losing streak, having dropped two close contests: a 42-37 road defeat at Nevada and a 33-25 home loss to UNLV. Oregon State came close to a comeback last week, driving to the Rebels’ 6-yard line before time ran out, spoiling a strong performance from quarterback Gevani McCoy. McCoy threw for 231 yards and rushed for another 81 in a brilliant all-around effort.

Oregon State head coach Trent Bray noted the similarities between his team and Cal, both of whom are struggling to overcome self-inflicted errors.

“(I) think they’re kind of looking for that same thing we are,” Bray said. “We got to eliminate self-inflicted mistakes that in tight games against good opponents will keep you from winning.”

The Beavers have shown flashes of offensive prowess, but they’ve been hampered by mistakes in critical moments. Heading into the matchup with Cal, Oregon State will need to focus on discipline and execution if they want to come away with a win.

Cal’s Struggles with Kicking and Narrow Losses

Cal, meanwhile, has experienced a string of close, heartbreaking defeats, dropping four straight games by a combined total of just nine points in their first ACC season. Kicking woes have been a major factor in the Golden Bears’ struggles. Kicker Ryan Coe missed two field goals in a 14-9 loss to Florida State and a potential game-winning 40-yarder in a 17-15 defeat at Pittsburgh.

The Golden Bears also blew a 38-18 fourth-quarter lead at home against Miami, ultimately losing 39-38, adding to their run of frustrating losses.

In response to Coe’s struggles, head coach Justin Wilcox made a kicker change before last week’s game against North Carolina State, turning to freshman Derek Morris. Morris showed promise, hitting field goals from 51, 26, and 24 yards, but missed a crucial 28-yarder with the game on the line. That miss allowed NC State to escape with a 24-23 victory.

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Cal’s Offensive Boost on the Horizon?

Cal’s offense has been inconsistent, but the potential return of key players could provide a much-needed spark. Running back Jaydn Ott, who has been dealing with injuries, may return for the game against Oregon State, as could wideout Tobias Merriweather, a Notre Dame transfer.

While Wilcox said both players will be game-day decisions, their return could inject energy into a struggling offense. Cal safety Craig Woodson expressed confidence in his team’s ability to put up points when healthy.

“When we’re healthy on offense,” Woodson said, “we can put up any amount of points we want to.”

A Crucial Game for Both Teams

Both Oregon State and Cal have plenty to play for, despite their current struggles. For Oregon State, a victory would help push them closer to bowl eligibility, while Cal is looking to gain momentum as they prepare for the remainder of their ACC schedule.

This will be the third all-time nonconference meeting between the teams, with each team having won once. Oregon State will aim to even the all-time series, while Cal looks to break its losing streak and reclaim momentum. Either way, fans can expect a hard-fought contest in this renewed rivalry, now taking place under new circumstances.