CORVALLIS, Ore. (AP) -- Oregon State is going to have a very different look when it takes the field to open the 2011 season.
As many as 14 first-time starters could step on the Reser Stadium turf when the Beavers host Sacramento State on Saturday.
The change has been made necessary partly by class turnover but the main culprit is the injury bug, which has bitten the Beavers hard ever since the spring.
The defensive tackle position has been decimated. The secondary will have three new starters. Tight end has been so depleted that Oregon State coach Mike Riley has started working out offensive lineman Grant Enger there to ensure the Beavers have some depth.
Other issues, including academic eligibility and disciplinary actions, also complicate the picture.
The Beavers kick off their season Saturday with a home game at Reser Stadium against Sacramento State.
