Oregon State football faces a pivotal fall camp, particularly within its special teams unit, where key positions at punter and kicker are up for intense competition and significant challenges. This period is crucial for setting the tone for the upcoming season as the Oregon State Football team prepares to solidify its roster.
The battle for the punter role is heating up, with redshirt sophomore AJ Winsor currently holding an edge based on his experience. However, whoever earns the starting job will face immense pressure to fill the “big shoes” left by the previous season’s standout, who set a school record with an average of 47.2 yards per punt. This competition is a critical component of the Beavers Special Teams strategy.
Conversely, the kicker position presents a different kind of challenge for the College Football program. Due to a series of injuries, a similar competitive atmosphere is currently absent. Redshirt junior Caleb Ojeda has been taking the majority of reps in training camp, as other potential contenders are not yet at full speed, necessitating a careful approach to his workload.
Special teams coordinator Jamie Christian is exercising caution with Ojeda, mindful of avoiding overexertion early in the Fall Camp. Ojeda has demonstrated consistent accuracy from distances up to approximately 40 yards, but the coaching staff has yet to test his capabilities much beyond that range, reserving more demanding attempts for later stages of preparation.
A persistent difficulty in preparing for special teams play lies in the inability to conduct full-speed, full-contact returns during practice. Coaches, including Christian, universally agree that no team would willingly put their players at such significant risk of injury in a practice setting. This limitation impacts how the team can simulate game-day scenarios.
To mitigate this inherent challenge, the coaching staff at NCAA Football programs, including Oregon State, employs a strategic compromise. Players engage in full-speed drills without actual contact, focusing on timing and precision. Separately, other drills incorporate some contact, though not at the high velocity of an actual game, ensuring safety while still building physicality.
Beyond the critical special teams battles, other position groups are also making strides during camp. For instance, tight end Bryce Caufield recently showcased his potential, making a remarkable catch for a significant gain down the left sideline, highlighting the developing offensive capabilities of the Oregon State Football squad.
The overall objective for the Beavers Special Teams unit remains clear: to develop robust, reliable players who can perform under pressure. As Fall Camp progresses, the focus will intensify on these pivotal roles, ensuring the team is well-prepared for the rigors of the upcoming College Football season. The stakes are high for success in the competitive landscape of NCAA Football.
