Navigating the Field: A Look Ahead at OSU and WSU Football in 2025: Insights, Previews, and Predictions

SuperWest Sports’ Nick Bartlett Leads Coverage of 2025 College Football Season

LOS ANGELES, CA – August 15, 2025 – SuperWest Sports’ Senior Writer, Nick Bartlett, is spearheading in-depth previews and predictions for the upcoming 2025 college football season. Bartlett, also the host of “The Nick Bartlett Show,” is delivering comprehensive analysis of teams across the western United States.

Recent coverage includes detailed breakdowns of Pac-12 rivals Oregon State and Washington State, offering insights into their offensive and defensive strategies, special teams capabilities, overall outlook, and game-by-game predictions. These previews aim to provide fans with a thorough understanding of each team’s potential for success in the evolving landscape of college athletics.

Bartlett’s analysis doesn’t stop at on-field performance. He’s also tackling the cultural side of college football, recently sparking debate with a ranking of the best mascots in the western region alongside fellow superwest Sports contributor Stephen Vilardo. The discussion highlighted the unique traditions and spirited rivalries that define the college football experience.

Beyond the Headlines: The Evolving West Coast Football Scene

The 2025 season marks a pivotal moment for West Coast college football. With conference realignment reshaping the competitive landscape, teams are navigating new challenges and opportunities. Bartlett’s coverage is particularly relevant as fans and analysts alike attempt to predict how these changes will impact team performance and conference standings.

Understanding a team’s strengths and weaknesses – as Bartlett provides – is crucial, but equally crucial is recognizing the broader context. Factors like recruiting success, coaching stability, and the ability to adapt to new conference dynamics will all play a important role in determining which teams emerge as contenders.

Bartlett’s work extends beyond immediate game predictions, offering a valuable resource for fans seeking a deeper understanding of the teams and the evolving dynamics of west Coast college football. His previews and analyses provide a foundation for informed discussion and a more engaging fan experience throughout the season.

What impact could successful transfer portal additions have on Oregon State’s receiving corps in the 2025 season?

Oregon State Beavers: Rebuilding and Potential in a New Era

The 2025 season marks a pivotal moment for Oregon State football. Following the tumultuous Pac-12 collapse and subsequent move to the Mountain west Conference, the Beavers face a unique challenge: maintaining momentum amidst significant roster turnover and conference realignment. Key to their success will be head coach Trent Bray’s ability to solidify a new offensive identity.

Offensive Outlook: Finding a New rhythm

Quarterback Situation: The departure of DJ Uiagalelei leaves a significant void. All eyes are on sophomore quarterback Ben Gulbranson, who showed flashes of potential in limited action last season. His growth will be crucial. Expect a competition throughout fall camp with walk-on Aidan chiles also vying for the starting role.

Running Game: Oregon State traditionally boasts a strong rushing attack. Look for Silas Redd and Anthony Davis jr. to shoulder the load, benefiting from a possibly revamped offensive line. Maintaining a powerful ground game will be essential for controlling the clock and taking pressure off the passing attack.

Receiving Corps: The Beavers need to identify reliable targets. transfer portal additions will be key here. Expect a focus on developing chemistry between Gulbranson (or chiles) and the wide receivers during the preseason.

Defensive Strategy: Maintaining a stout Front Seven

Defensive coordinator tim Tibbits will aim to build upon the beavers’ traditionally strong defensive line.

Defensive Line Depth: Oregon State’s strength lies in its defensive line. Players like Sione Lolohea and James Rawls Jr. are expected to lead the charge, providing consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

linebacker Corps: The linebackers will need to step up and fill the gaps left by departing seniors. Look for improved tackling and coverage skills from this unit.

Secondary Concerns: The secondary is the biggest question mark.developing depth and improving coverage skills are top priorities for the coaching staff.

Washington State Cougars: Adapting and excelling in a New Landscape

Washington State, like Oregon State, is navigating a new conference home in the Mountain west.However, the Cougars appear to be in a slightly more stable position, with a returning head coach in Jake Dickert and a core of experienced players.The 2025 season is about proving they can compete at a high level despite the changes.

Offensive Power: Air Raid Potential

The Cougars’ offense is expected to lean heavily into the Air Raid system.

Quarterback Leadership: Cameron Ward’s departure is a blow, but transfer quarterback Drew Pyne from Notre Dame brings experience and a strong arm. His ability to quickly grasp the offense will be vital.

Wide Receiver Talent: Washington State consistently produces talented wide receivers. Kyle Skillen and Cole Hutson are expected to be key targets for Pyne, providing a reliable deep threat.

Running Back by Committee: Expect a committee approach in the backfield, with several running backs vying for carries. This will help keep the offense balanced and prevent any single player from becoming overly fatigued.

Defensive Adjustments: Speed and Aggression

Defensive coordinator Chris fenimore will focus on a fast, aggressive defensive scheme.

Pass Rush Emphasis: Generating consistent pressure on the quarterback will be a priority. The Cougars will rely on their defensive ends to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers.

Linebacker Playmaking: The linebackers will be responsible for both stopping the run and covering tight ends and running backs in the passing game.

Secondary Improvements: Improving the secondary’s coverage skills is crucial. Look for increased emphasis on man-to-man coverage and aggressive playmaking.

Key Matchups and Predictions for 2025

The annual Oregon State vs. Washington State rivalry game, now within the Mountain West, will undoubtedly be a highlight of the season.

Oregon State vs.Boise State (October 18th): A tough road test against a perennial Mountain West powerhouse. This game will be a good indicator of the Beavers’ ability to compete for a conference championship.

Washington State vs. San Diego State (November 8th): A key divisional matchup that could determine Washington State’s playoff hopes.

Civil War (November 29th): The rivalry game is always unpredictable. Expect a hard-fought contest with significant bragging rights on the line.

Predictions:

Oregon State: 8-4 5-3 in Mountain West. A challenging season, but the Beavers should remain competitive.

* Washington State: 9-3 6-2 in Mountain West. The cougars have the potential to contend for the Mountain West championship.

Transfer Portal Impact: A Game Changer

The transfer portal continues to reshape collage football, and both Oregon State and Washington State have been active in utilizing it. successful portal additions can fill critical roster gaps and provide immediate impact. Monitoring portal activity throughout the spring and summer will be crucial for both teams. The NCAA transfer portal deadline is January 31st, 2025.

Mountain West Conference Landscape: competition and Challenges

The Mountain West Conference presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Boise state remains the team to beat, but San