The Oregon Ducks must focus on these five Oregon State Beavers if they hope to keep their win streak intact against their in-state rival
Here are five Oregon State players to watch as the Ducks get set to play in the Civil War.
The Civil War is always one of the most anticipated games on Oregon’s schedule, and this year is no different. The Ducks enter the matchup looking to keep momentum rolling and solidify their place among the nation’s top contenders, but Oregon State could make the game interesting. The Beavers may not have the same depth as Oregon, yet they feature several playmakers on both sides of the ball who can give the Ducks problems. From a transfer quarterback still finding his footing, to a veteran running back who thrives on physicality, to defenders capable of disrupting the Ducks’ rhythm, Oregon State has the pieces to make this rivalry as unpredictable as ever. For Oregon to come out on top, these five Beavers must be accounted for.
1. Maalik Murphy, QB
Oregon State’s offense starts with Murphy, the transfer quarterback who has been asked to do a lot early this season. He’s thrown for nearly 900 yards and six touchdowns in three games, though his five interceptions show he can be rattled. For the Ducks, that means pressure up front is critical. It could be a long day for the Beavers if Oregon can collapse the pocket and force Murphy into mistakes. Additionally, Murphy can use his legs to gain yards and is a big, physical runner. Tackling and ensuring the Ducks contain him on the ground will be key.
2. Anthony Hankerson, RB
Hankerson is the workhorse of this Beaver offense. He carried the load in 2024, topping 1,000 rushing yards and finding the end zone 15 times. So far this year, he’s again the focal point of the ground game, getting most of the carries. Oregon’s defensive front, which has been average against the run, will need to bottle him up and force Murphy to throw in obvious passing downs.
3. Trent Walker, WR
Walker is a great story – once a walk-on, now the Beavers’ most dangerous receiver. He can stretch the field and create chunk plays, so Oregon’s secondary can’t afford to lose track of him. Limiting Walker’s production will keep Murphy from finding a rhythm in the passing game.
4. Nikko Taylor, OLB
At 6’5” and 265 pounds, Taylor is a disruptive force off the edge. He leads the Beavers in quarterback hurries and has the tools to make life uncomfortable for Oregon’s signal-caller. The Ducks’ offensive line, one of the best in the nation, will get an actual test in keeping him contained.
5. Skyler Thomas, S
A redshirt senior, Thomas leads the Beavers’ secondary. He is an aggressive defender against the run and pass, and had a very productive game last week against Texas Tech, recording an interception. He is second in tackles and will be a big key for the Beavers in stopping Oregon’s rushing attack.
