1. Are there any lingering questions after fall camp and heading into Game 1

The pass defense. The Beavers were 11th in the Pac-12 last season against the pass. They need to get more pressure on the quarterback.

2. Jonathan Smith has done a great job getting Oregon State to be very competitive, how has he built up this Beavers program?

Better recruiting, especially getting junior college transfers. Smith played at Oregon State, including when the Beavers finished in the top-5 after beating Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl in the 2000 season. He knows how to sell Corvallis to recruits.

Mountain West Football: First Look At The Oregon State Beavers

3. Who are the key players and ones to know this week?

Chance Nolan is the returning starting quarterback. He’s solid, with some limitations. The running backs are good, especially Deshaun Fenwick, Trey Lowe and Damien Martinez.

4. What is the one area that Oregon State is really good at and can take advantage of against Boise State?

Running the ball. That’s been a staple of Jonathan Smith’s tenure. This year’s backs lack some experience, but they are talented.

5. How do you see this game playing out?

I picked Oregon State 34-28. It will be close. Boise State will be able to throw the ball pretty well, and Oregon State will run it. Slight edge to the Beavers for being at home where they were unbeaten last season.