Yeah, we know. We’ve heard it all many times over. Said it ourselves, even. The combination of NIL and the transfer portal has completely reshaped (ruined?) college football. Its existence, coupled with conference realignment, has created existential headaches for non-blue blood programs across the nation. But, for Oregon State, this new era might actually be a good thing. Hear me out.

That didn’t take long, did it? Just nine days ago, we asked “Will it be Johnson’s time to shine? Or will an experienced portal addition take the reins?” Well, HAPPY BELLIGEMAS, indeed, Beaver fam! The quarterback room in Corvallis got a significant upgrade with the addition of 6'5", 230-pound redshirt sophomore Maalik Murphy.

The 2024 season showcased Oregon State’s quarterback struggles, with injuries and inconsistency shaping the narrative. As 2025 approaches, the Beavers face a pivotal offseason. Will Gabarri Johnson emerge as QB1, or will a transfer like Brandon Lewis bring stability?