Oregon State Hires Shephard as New Football Coach

Oregon State University's football team wrapped up a disappointing 2-10 season with a 32-8 loss to rival Washington State on Saturday at Martin Stadium in Pullman, Washington, capping a year marked by defensive lapses and offensive struggles. The defeat avenged Washington State's earlier 10-7 loss to the Beavers and secured bowl eligibility for the Cougars, who finished with a winning record in the reduced Pac-2 conference.

The game highlighted Oregon State's persistent challenges, starting with special teams errors and an anemic offense that managed just 288 total yards. True freshman quarterback Tristan Tia, making his first start, showed promise in completing 28 of 41 passes for 240 yards and one touchdown but faced heavy pressure, including six sacks and two interceptions. His lone scoring throw, a 12-yard pass to wide receiver Trent Walker with 5:49 remaining, prevented a shutout. Running back Anthony Hankerson contributed 71 rushing yards, adding to his 1,000-yard season total, but the Beavers could not sustain drives.

Washington State built an early lead with a 3-0 field goal and a 2-yard touchdown run by Kirby Vorhees, extending it to 13-0 by halftime. Quarterback Zevi...