The 2024 Oregon State football season left a lot to ponder, particularly at the quarterback position. From inconsistent performances to injury setbacks, the Beavers’ QB room endured growing pains that significantly shaped the season’s narrative. As 2025 approaches, the current roster dynamics, the impact of transfers, and potential reinforcements via the transfer portal warrant a deep dive.

Let’s take a look at how each quarterback fared in 20224, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and look ahead to what the future might hold under center.

The 2024 QB Carousel: Splits and Insights

Gevani McCoy: Dual-Threat Promise, But Inconsistency Hurt

McCoy started the season as QB1 but was ultimately sidelined by injuries and inefficiency. He showed flashes of dual-threat capability, evidenced by his 1,300 passing yards (60.9% completion) and 328 rushing yards (5.6 YPC). However, his 3 passing TDs against 6 INTs highlighted struggles in the passing game.

• Strengths:

  • Red-Zone Efficiency: McCoy was most effective in short-field situations, scoring all five of his rushing touchdowns inside the opponent’s 20-yard line. His mobility was a clear asset, particularly in designed QB runs.

  • Big Play Potential: His longest pass of 55 yards and a season-high 71-yard rush showed his ability to flip the field with explosive plays.

  • Road Warrior: McCoy was slightly better on the road, completing 60% of passes for 532 yards and 7.1 YPA, compared to his home performance (6.0 YPA).

• Weaknesses:

  • Turnover Prone: His 6 interceptions in October contributed to a steep decline in offensive efficiency, particularly during the team’s midseason struggles.

  • Late-Game Ineffectiveness: In the fourth quarter, McCoy’s 57.5% completion rate and 5.4 YPA paled compared to his first-quarter numbers (62.8% and 6.5 YPA). This drop-off hindered comeback opportunities.

Ben Gulbranson: A Safe Pair of Hands, But Lacking Dynamism

When McCoy faltered, the Beavers turned to Ben Gulbranson. His 943 passing yards, 4 TDs, and 4 INTs across four starts reflected a steady but unspectacular presence. Gulbranson’s primary strength lay in his efficiency in short-yardage situations, but a lack of mobility limited his ceiling.

• Strengths:

  • Short-Yardage Passing: On first downs, Gulbranson posted a 7.5 YPA with a 64.8% completion rate, showing his ability to keep the offense on schedule.

  • Efficiency in Wins: In the season-ending victory over Washington State, Gulbranson was sharp, completing 64.7% of passes for 294 yards and 2 TDs, including a game-winning drive.

  • Ball Security Under Pressure: Against top-ranked defenses, Gulbranson limited turnovers, throwing just 1 interception in such matchups.

• Weaknesses:

  • Downfield Limitations: His 7.4 YPA for the season reflects a conservative approach, rarely threatening defenses deep. He also took 5 sacks in high-pressure situations.

  • Rushing Liability: With -7 rushing yards on 14 carries, Gulbranson offered no threat on the ground, making the offense predictable.

Gabarri Johnson: Flashing Potential, Development Required

Redshirt freshman Gabarri Johnson provided glimpses of his potential but operated in limited action. His season splits—15 completions for 174 yards (51.7%) and 106 rushing yards—highlighted both raw talent and areas for growth.

• Strengths:

  • Dynamic Rushing: Johnson’s 4.1 yards per carry and a 23-yard longest rush demonstrate his athleticism, particularly when breaking containment.

  • Quick Starts: In first quarters, Johnson excelled with a 60% completion rate, showcasing his ability to lead early scoring drives.

  • Low Pressure, High Impact: Johnson performed best in clean pocket situations, showing promise as a poised passer when given time.

• Weaknesses:

  • Third-Down Struggles: Johnson’s 33.3% completion rate on third downs underscored issues with decision-making in crucial moments.

  • Inexperience in Big Games: Johnson’s limited reps against quality opponents raise questions about his readiness for a starting role in 2025.

Looking Ahead to 2025: The Projected QB Room

Retained Talent

The room currently includes:

• Gabarri Johnson (RS freshman): The presumed frontrunner for QB1, thanks to his dual-threat potential and upside.

• Kallen Gutridge (freshman): An exciting in-state prospect with elite high school production.

Departures

• Gevani McCoy: His transfer creates a void in dual-threat experience and overall depth.

• Jake Sanders: Likely departing as a graduate transfer, further thinning the ranks.

• Dom Montiel: A developmental player with flashes of brilliance during the 2024 spring game has also entered the portal.

Arrivals

• High school senior Tristan Ti’a is expected to sign in February, adding a promising long-term option. However, immediate reinforcements are likely to come from the transfer portal.

The Transfer Portal Question

Even with Johnson in the mix, the Beavs would be wise to explore the transfer portal for an experienced quarterback. One name already generating buzz? Brandon Lewis, who just announced he’s leaving Nevada. Lewis, a dual-threat QB with one year of eligibility remaining, could be the perfect bridge for Oregon State.

Lewis struggled early in his career but took a huge leap in 2024, completing 67.6% of his passes for 2,290 yards, 16 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. He also led Nevada in rushing with 775 yards and eight scores. Those numbers, paired with his mobility, would make him an ideal fit in the Beavers’ offensive scheme. Lewis wouldn’t block Johnson or the younger quarterbacks in the long term, but his experience could provide invaluable stability during this transition year.

Adding someone like Lewis doesn’t just deepen the competition—it raises the floor for the entire QB room.

What’s Next?

Oregon State is at a crossroads with its quarterbacks. The pieces are there for a promising future, but it’ll take the right mix of development, competition, and maybe one key addition from the portal to solidify the position.

If Johnson takes charge in the spring, the Beavs might stick with the young guns and let their talent grow. But if there’s uncertainty, don’t be surprised to see the staff bring in a proven commodity like Lewis to add a layer of security.

No matter how this shakes out, the battle for QB1 will be the defining storyline of the offseason. Will it be Johnson’s time to shine? Could Gutridge make a leap? Or will an experienced portal addition take the reins? We’ll find out soon enough.

Circle August 30, 2025, on your calendars, Beaver Fam. When Cal rolls into Reser Stadium, the Beavs will be ready. The only question is, who’s taking the first snap?