Washington State vs Oregon State Picks and Predictions for Saturday, October 17, 2026
The Washington State Cougars (1-5, 0-2 Pac-12) visit the Oregon State Beavers (4-2, 2-0 Pac-12) on Saturday at Reser Stadium in Corvallis, Oregon. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. ET on USA Network. Washington State sits eighth in the Pac-12 after losing 17-16 to Utah State, while Oregon State is tied for first following a 66-14 victory over San Diego State. The Beavers are 18.5-point favorites, with the total set at 53.5 points. For more college football betting predictions, check out our free NCAAF picks.
Washington State Cougars Struggle to Find Consistency
Washington State has lost four of its last five games, including defeats against Utah State, Fresno State, Arizona, and Kansas State. The Cougars scored just six points against Fresno State and seven against Kansas State, highlighting their offensive problems. Quarterback Caden Pinnick has completed 61.8% of his passes for 952 yards, three touchdowns, and five interceptions. Pinnick has also been sacked 21 times, while Washington State averages just 5.3 yards per passing attempt.
The Cougars have rushed for 742 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 4.0 yards per carry. Kirby Vorhees leads with 251 yards and two touchdowns, while Pinnick has contributed 194 rushing yards and three scores. Darrius Clemons leads the receivers with 218 yards, followed by Daniel Blood with 207. Defensively, Washington State has recorded seven sacks and three interceptions. Keith Brown leads with 36 tackles, while Jirah Leaupepetele has 2.5 sacks. Washington State has allowed 34 points twice in its last five games.
Oregon State Beavers Continue Their Winning Streak
Oregon State enters Saturday riding a four-game winning streak, defeating Montana, UTEP, Colorado State, and San Diego State. The Beavers have scored at least 33 points in each victory, including 56 against Colorado State and 66 against San Diego State. Quarterback Braden Atkinson has completed 70.6% of his passes for 2,257 yards, 21 touchdowns, and just two interceptions. Atkinson averages 9.6 yards per passing attempt, giving Oregon State a significant advantage through the air.
Wide receiver Jesse Legree has recorded 932 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns on 38 receptions, averaging 24.5 yards per catch. Eric Olsen has contributed 280 receiving yards and three touchdowns, while Aeryn Hampton has added 245 yards. Oregon State has rushed for 787 yards and 11 touchdowns, led by AJ Newberry with 326 yards and three scores. Defensively, the Beavers have recorded 15 sacks and five interceptions. Aiden Sullivan leads with 43 tackles, while Takari Hickle has contributed 3.5 sacks.
Key to the Game
Oregon State's passing attack presents a difficult matchup for Washington State's defense. Atkinson has thrown 21 touchdowns against just two interceptions, while Legree has averaged 24.5 yards per reception. Washington State has recorded only seven sacks this season, limiting its ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. The Cougars also need better offensive production after scoring 16 points against Utah State and six against Fresno State. Protecting Pinnick remains important after 21 sacks through six games.
Washington State vs Oregon State Game Pick
- Oregon State -18.5 (-105)
Oregon State enters Saturday with four consecutive victories and an offense that has scored 207 points during that stretch. Atkinson has thrown 21 touchdowns and just two interceptions, while Legree has 932 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. Washington State has lost four of its last five games and struggled to protect Pinnick, allowing 21 sacks this season. The Beavers have recorded 15 sacks and possess a clear advantage offensively. Oregon State controls the matchup at home and covers the 18.5-point spread.
Washington State vs Oregon State Over/Under Pick
- Over 53.5 (-110)
Oregon State has scored at least 33 points in four consecutive victories, including 56 against Colorado State and 66 against San Diego State. Atkinson has thrown for 2,257 yards and 21 touchdowns, while Legree leads the receiving group with 932 yards and 12 scores. Washington State has allowed 34 points twice in its last five games and surrendered 26 against Fresno State. Oregon State's explosive passing attack drives the scoring, while the Cougars contribute enough points to cash the combined total over 53.5.