The Beavers know they haven't been to a bowl game since 2013, They also know that in 2014 they were 5-5 after an upset win at Reser over then 7th ranked Arizona State 35-27. The difference here is that Oregon State team started 4-1 and sputtered at the end with Mike Riley leaving soon after.
The 2019 Beavers started with a tough loss to Oklahoma State and then a loss in Hawaii that very easily could have been a win. Cal Poly was an expected win and Oregon State outscored them 45-7. Then the loss to Stanford that again had win written all over it. So 1-3 and a road game at the Rose Bowl. But this team started to believe after the 48-31 victory over Chip Kelly's Bruins. Yah, the Utah loss was humbling but instead of moping the Beavers beat Cal and Arizona on the road. All of a sudden they were 4-4. Washington shutdown the Beavers offense but the much-maligned defense showed a certain strength that paid dividends against ASU. Another goal was realized by winning a conference game at home.
Now 5-5 with a bowl game in sights. But the Cougs are home and they have an incredible offense. Can that defense create enough distraction to slow down Anthony Gordon just enough to give Jake Luton and company an opportunity to outscore WSU?
By the way, the November 23rd game is the latest date the Beavers have ever visited the Palouse in the 104-year history of the rivalry. Should be fun!!!