It has been 41 years since the original Giant Killers made their mark in the
Oregon State history books, defeating the #1 ranked USC Trojans at home in Parker
Stadium, and while the 2006 contest was a close second, this years momentous
victory will go down in history as one of the biggest (if not the biggest) victory
in the programs history.

This is a game that we will be telling our grandchildren about, and the names
of those who gave it their all will forever be etched in our memories. Dee Andros,
Jess Lewis, Steve Preece, Bill Enyart...just a few of the names from the 1967
team that Beaver fans still hold 'hero' status among Oregon State fans. Last
night, a new generation was crowned, and the names Mike Riley, Jacquizz
Rodgers, Keaton Kristick, and Greg Laybourn will join
this 2008 squad as a team for the ages.

It is always tough to single out just three defensive players for this award
after a game like this. While the entire defense played with grit and emotion,
these three individuals led the charge. And while we will forever remember Greg
Laybourn's interception late in the fourth quarter, which set up the Beavers
last score, linebacker Keaton Kristick made big hit after big hit all evening
long as well, tallying the Beavers only sack on USC quarterback, Mark Sanchez.

And while the stats may not show it, this game was won in the trenches, and
the Oregon State defensive line came out ready to play. Slade Norris
was the statistical leader, but the Beavers once again used a heavy rotation
and had great success.