Oregon State football enters the 2026 season with a new coaching staff, a new-look Pac-12 Conference and plenty of expectations surrounding the Beavers. The program began a new era under head coach JaMarcus Shephard, with the season opener taking place on September 5 against Houston.
Oregon State Football 2026 Season
The 2026 season represents an important reset for Oregon State. After a difficult 2–10 campaign in 2025, the Beavers entered the new season with a new coaching direction and a renewed focus on building a competitive program.
Oregon State is also part of the newly rebuilt Pac-12 in 2026. The conference features eight football programs, with Oregon State scheduled to play a seven-game conference slate before the Pac-12 Championship Game in December.
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Oregon State vs Houston
Oregon State opened the 2026 season on the road against Houston on September 5. The Beavers were defeated 17–10 by the Cougars in a competitive season opener.
Despite the loss, several Oregon State players provided encouraging performances. True freshman Jesse Legree made an immediate impact in his college debut, while the Beavers showed signs of improvement under the new coaching staff.
The opening game also gave Oregon State valuable experience before beginning its home schedule.
Key Changes for Oregon State Football
One of the biggest storylines surrounding Oregon State football is the arrival of JaMarcus Shephard. His first season gives the program an opportunity to establish a new identity and develop a different style of football.
The coaching staff spent the offseason preparing both sides of the ball. Oregon State’s defense also received significant attention during preseason preparations, with players discussing their expectations and approach ahead of the Houston game.
Oregon State Football Schedule
The Beavers have a demanding schedule in 2026. After Houston, Oregon State returns home to face Texas Tech on September 12. The game is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time and will be nationally televised on CBS.
The remainder of the regular-season schedule includes Montana, UTEP, Colorado State, San Diego State, Washington State, Fresno State, Texas State, Boise State and Utah State.
Oregon State is also scheduled to finish the regular season with a flex matchup on November 28. The Pac-12 Championship Game is scheduled for December 4.
Oregon State’s Home Games
Reser Stadium will be an important part of the Beavers’ 2026 campaign. Oregon State is scheduled to host Texas Tech, Montana, San Diego State, Washington State, Texas State and Utah State during the regular season.
The home opener against Texas Tech is particularly significant because it gives the new coaching staff its first opportunity to lead the Beavers in front of their home supporters.
What to Expect From Oregon State Football
Oregon State’s main objective in 2026 is to build consistency and establish a strong foundation under its new coaching staff. The Beavers have an opportunity to compete in the rebuilt Pac-12 while developing younger players and creating a new team identity.
The early part of the schedule will be especially important. Games against Texas Tech, Montana and UTEP should provide Oregon State with opportunities to build momentum before the conference portion of the season becomes more demanding.
Oregon State Football Outlook
Although the season began with a loss at Houston, the 2026 campaign is about more than one game. Oregon State is entering a new chapter, and the performance of the coaching staff, young players and returning contributors will determine how quickly the program can improve.
With a new coach, a new conference structure and a challenging schedule, Oregon State football will be one of the programs worth following throughout the 2026 college football season.
Sources
Legree, Atkinson Shine In Oregon State Debuts, Beavs Edged In Houston
Beavers show fight but fall short against No. 23 Houston in opener
