Alexander Does It All in Victory

Oregon State’s Tim Alexander wanted to show he could play more than one position.

He played three successfully Saturday in Oregon State’s 24-16 nonconference victory over Utah State, racking up a combined 179 yards passing, rushing and receiving.

Alexander and backup quarterback Tyler Tomich combined for 224 passing yards, and Jonathan Jackson recovered a fumble with 2:39 to play as Oregon State held off Utah State.

Alexander’s versatility doesn’t mean he’ll be giving up the starting quarterback job, said Coach Mike Riley.

“Tim’s the starter,” Riley said. “The only thing we’re slipping into is a two-quarterback system.”

Alexander lined up at wide receiver in the first play of the game because of a sore arm, but he soon returned to quarterback and later lined up in the backfield behind Tomich as the Beavers (3-2) used a variety of schemes to keep the Aggies (2-4) off balance.

Alexander, who had his first two career catches in the game, said he was glad to show that he could do more than play quarterback.

“Whatever it takes to win; I’m willing to play any position,” Alexander said. “It was a fun day for me.”

The Beavers, who improved to 3-2 for the first time since 1988, appeared to have the game put away when Jose Cortez kicked a 32-yard field goal to go ahead, 24-10, with 5:40 left.

Armon Hatcher intercepted Utah State quarterback Mike Sauk’s pass at the Oregon State 10-yard line with 4:40 remaining, but the Beavers had to punt. Steve Smith then took the kick 74 yards for a touchdown to cut the lead to 24-16 with 3:37 left.

The Aggies recovered the onside kick and moved the ball to the Beaver 21. On the next play, running back Demario Brown bounced outside for a 16-yard gain, but fumbled at the five, and Jonathan Jackson recovered with 2:39 left to preserve the victory.

NEXT FOR UCLA

Who: Oregon State

Where: Rose Bowl

When: Saturday, 3:30 p.m.

TV:

Radio: AM 1150