Sun Bowl: Oregon State Beavers vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Oregon State and Notre Dame both had strong seasons in 2023, but a litany of opt-outs, transfers and departures have created many issues for bettors. Jonathan Smith left Corvallis for the job in East Lansing. Marcus Freeman remains on the sideline for the Irish, but multiple role players have opted out in order to prepare for the NFL Draft. In a volatile bowl season this contest has become the prime example of the issues that arise in the era of player movement in college football.
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Neither starting quarterback will be on the field in El Paso when this contest kicks-off. Sam Hartman has opted out, and DJ Uiagalelei has entered the transfer portal. So too did backup Aidan Chiles, who will follow Smith to Michigan State. This leaves the Beavers with Ben Gulbranson as the starter, and he will oppose Steve Angeli for the Irish.
Quarterback is hardly the only position affected by transfers and opt-outs. Oregon State will not have its top two tacklers – linebacker Easton Mascarenas-Arnold and safety Akili Arnold – touchdown leader Jack Veiling and second-leading receiver Anthony Gould. Starting running back Damien Martinez is also doubtful to play after being arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in November. Oregon State is a shell of the team which won eight games this season.