The UCLA Bruins (6-2) head north to face the Oregon State Beavers (2-6). Check out the UCLA vs. Oregon State prediction and game preview.

UCLA vs. Oregon State Game Preview

Broadcast

Date: Saturday, November 7
Game Time: 4:30 ET
Network: Pac-12 Networks

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Why You Need To Care

UCLA has rebounded from back-to-back losses with consecutive victories, though last week’s narrow escape of Colorado in Pasadena revealed more questions than answers. The Bruins are one of three remaining contenders in the Pac-12 South, and one of just two controlling their own destiny in November. Oregon State is winless in Pac-12 play, a fact unlikely to change over the next four games. The Beavers will spend this month laying a foundation, with an eye toward Gary Andersen’s second year in Corvallis.

Why UCLA Will Win

The gap in talent between these schools is immense, especially since Oregon State has been hit so hard by injuries. The Beavers are averaging 19 points per game and won’t have top QB Seth Collins. Meanwhile, the Bruins are norming more than 35 points per game and have won 12 of their last 13 outside the Rose Bowl. UCLA will be especially successful running Paul Perkins and Soso Jamabo against an OSU D allowing 4.8 yards per carry.

Why Oregon State Will Win

The young Beavers showed a ton of heart last week against one-loss Utah, only losing 27-12. The defense was scrappy, as the secondary continued to limit big plays. UCLA had trouble with Colorado’s pace and ground game a week ago, which will entice Oregon State to utilize all of its ground weapons, including RB Storm Barrs-Woods, WR Victor Bolden and QB Nick Mitchell.

Player Who Matters

Receivers Jordan Payton and Thomas Duarte have quietly given rookie QB Josh Rosen a very productive one-two punch in the passing game. The pair has combined for 81 catches and 10 touchdown receptions. And they’ll be additionally dangerous this Saturday as Oregon State continues to cope with injuries to starting cornerbacks Larry Scott and Treston Decoud.

What’s Going To Happen?

The Beavers are too young and inconsistent on offense to upend a UCLA team that has balance on offense, visions of a South Division title and a track record of road success. Oregon State will compete in the early going before bowing to Rosen’s passing, Perkins’ running and the speed and athleticism of the Bruin defense.

UCLA vs. Oregon State Prediction

Final Score: UCLA 35, Oregon State 17, Line: UCLA -17.5, o/u: 57
Must See Rating: 5: The Gospel According To Mac – 1: Supergirl … 2.5

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