Oregon State

JaMarcus Shephard takes over a program that lost 35 players to the portal, bleeding 57.9 points of production after a dismal 2-10 season. The Beavers rank 122nd nationally in JP+'s preseason ratings at -9.7 points, with an offense that grades dead last at -5.5 and special teams near the bottom at -1.5. The receiving corps took the biggest hit, losing Trent Walker (42.5 PPA) to Houston and David Wells Jr. (20.8 PPA) to Tulsa, while quarterback Maalik Murphy returns to anchor whatever's left. Oregon State brought in 19 portal additions but gained minimal production, with running back AJ Newberry from Vanderbilt (1.1 PPA) leading a modest haul that barely dents the massive losses.

JP+ projects 4.5 wins for the Beavers, a modest improvement that reflects both low expectations and the reality of rebuilding in year one under Shephard. The schedule offers some relief with home games against Utah State and Montana, plus a road trip to UTEP, but tests against Texas Tech at home and road games at Houston and Boise State will reveal how quickly this roster can develop. If Murphy can elevate his play and the portal additions exceed their modest projections, Oregon State might sneak toward bowl eligibility. If not, Shephard's first season becomes about establishing a foundation for future cycles.