The Oregon State Beavers have completed another impressive upset of a ranked opponent this week, beating the 19th-ranked UCLA Bruins 27-20 on Saturday afternoon. This win comes just one week after the Beavers beat then-No. 13 Wisconsin 10-7 at home.
Quarterback Sean Mannion and strong run defense led the way for Oregon State on Saturday. The Beavers usually need a strong performance from Mannion to win, but the ability of the Beavers' defense to limit UCLA's impressive rushing attack may have been the difference-maker.
Entering the game as the fifth-best rushing offense in the nation, the Bruins looked entirely ordinary against Oregon State, rushing 28 times for just 72 yards. Running back Jonathan Franklin, who had rushed for 541 yards combined in the first three games of the season, was limited to just 45 yards on 12 carries by the Beavers.
Mannion was similarly impressive for Oregon State, completing 25-of-36 passes for 384 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. Like the Bruins, the Beavers often struggled to move the ball on the ground, but Mannion helped to keep the offense moving through the air.
After having their season opener against Nicholls State postponed, the Beavers are now 2-0 this season with a pair of victories over ranked opponents. After going 3-9 last season, Oregon State appears to be much improved this year.
Stick with this StoryStream for score updates and more from Oregon State vs. UCLA. For more insight and analysis, check out Oregon State blog Building the Dam. For the perspective from Los Angeles, check out UCLA blog Bruins Nation.