Oregon State Football Recruiting: Who redshirts? Who doesn’t?

By national standards, Oregon State pulled in yet another mediocre recruiting class. By Coach Riley’s standards it is one of the best classes he has ever gotten. Highlighted by Michael Phillip, the nation’s number one offensive guard by most publications, this class is filled with something the Beavers have lacked in the recent past: speed. While Riley has slowly been building depth at each position allowing most of his classes to redshirt, there will be around three or four players that will be looked at to contribute immediately.

Michael Phillip, 6-3, 320 lbs, 4-star by Rivals.com. Listed as the number offensive guard in the nation, O-line coach Mike Cavanaugh is anxious to see if Phillip is mature enough to fill one of the tackle spots vacated by Andy Levitre. He’s got the size, speed, and athletic ability but everyone knows the offensive line position is one of the hardest to grasp for an incoming freshman. With numerous injuries accumulated in the spring, Phillip will get a serious look at contributing early.

Reggie Dunn, 5-11, 185, 3-star by Rivals.com. Coming out of high school Dunn was one of the most explosive and sought-after receivers on the west coast. After growing three inches (was listed at 5-8 in high school) Dunn has matured into more of a go-to receiver while still being one of the fastest players in JC. With the losses of Sammie Stroughter and Shane Morales, Dunn will get a quick look to immediately contribute. He will have four years to play three.

Ashton Jefferson, 6-2, 195 lbs, 2-star by Rivals.com. Most haven’t heard of Jefferson but with the thinning depth at running back (McCants’ spring knee injury) serious concerns have forced Coach Riley to give this Texas native a look to help keep Quizz healthy all season. He’s got great upside with his combination of size and speed (they say he’s closer to 210 lbs now) and Riley said he flew under the radar because he really broke out his senior year. Time will tell if Riley has found yet another hidden gem in the longhorn state.