CORVALLIS — AJ Newberry has established himself as the primary running back for Oregon State through his performances in recent weeks.
However, JaMarcus Shephard, in a familiar move this season, pushed one of his players. Shephard urged Newberry during the running back meeting as well as in individual discussions to “run more effectively behind his pads.”
Yet again, Shephard’s comments prompted a positive reaction.
Newberry achieved 11 carries for 105 yards and made five receptions totaling 120 yards along with a touchdown, contributing significantly to the Beavers’ 48-30 victory against Washington State on Saturday afternoon at Reser Stadium.
“He displayed a fierce determination at times during the game today,” Shephard commented. “If he maintains that level of play, there are no limits on what he can achieve.”
He made history as the first player from Oregon State to record 100 rushing yards and 100 receiving yards in a single game since Steven Jackson did so against Fresno State in 2003.
This marked Newberry’s second game of the season with over 100 rushing yards and by far his highest receiving yardage to date.
“I like to picture how the game will unfold for me, and honestly, I didn’t expect it to turn out this way,” Newberry remarked. “I thought it would be different, leaning more towards running. The combination of both the run and the pass made everything much better.”
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A standout moment for Newberry featured an impressive 88-yard touchdown following a screen pass. He caught the ball on the left flank and leaped over Washington State safety Jaylen Thomas en route to the end zone, extending the Beavers’ lead to 27-3 with 3:59 left in the first half.
“Honestly, I intended to cut across his face and head the other way,” Newberry shared. “But when I noticed him falling, my instincts just took over. I stepped over him.”
Newberry came close to securing a second touchdown reception but was ruled down just short at the 1-yard line.
Additionally, he had impressive runs of 19, 26, and 30 yards.
“He played with a certain intensity that showed he was eager to improve for the benefit of this team,” Shephard noted. “I always encourage our players to carry a bit of an edge, and he does just that.
“He has performed exceptionally well at various points during the season, but tonight was a unique experience watching him play at that level.”
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