Can OSU salvage the season today?

The Oregon State football team plays a crucial game today against Pac-12 opponent UCLA today in Reser Stadium. A loss here begins a spiral down for the team.

“Every win is a chance to grow and build that confidence,” coach Mike Riley said. “It’s important to grow after that. That breakthrough for the first win is a big deal.”

Read my game preview in Saturday’s GT. From there you’ll have links to the preview stories throughout the week.

It’s going to be a closely contested game with teams in the same position. So, expect it to be hard-hitting.

My pick for the game: OSU 14, UCLA 13. Yes, it’s going to be that close.

“Regardless of the situations, teams are fighting for something,” Riley said “For us, it’s a win for confidence to build on. They happen to feel the same way. Everyone wants to compete for a conference championship at the end. With the state of our team and the state of their team in the first conference game there’s a lot riding on wining this game.”

Check out my Game Day special section story. I take a look at the series between the Beavers and Bruins. It has been rough against the Bruins.

Here are my players to watch. I go with TE Joe Halahuni for OSU since he promised to make an impact and UCLA QB Richard Brehaut since he’s mobile and OSU has trouble those types of QBs, and he tore up the Beavers last season.

Remember to follow the blog before, during and after the game. Follow me at twitter.com/cliffgt, and on Facebook. The Twitter feed goes there.

To help you get into the mood for UCLA, I have to highlight one of my many favorite L.A. bands. I’ve picked Motley Crue, Ratt and Guns n’ Roses. Here’s a less popular band, but more infamous — W.A.S.P. The band is still cranking out great songs. Here’s a newer one.

Post to Twitter