Corvallis, OR-- Last season, Oregon State football had the second worst total defense in the entire nation. Falling just ahead of the Kansas Jayhawks. But with a new season, comes a chance to redeem themselves. So far, they are doing just that.

Over the past two practices the Beavers defense has been performing much better, even at times impressing Beavers Head Coach Johnathan Smith, who stated that, "The defense had won the previous scrimmage last Saturday."

"The defense is much improved, even since spring ball," said outside linebacker Addison Gumbs. "I feel like we've been much improved and since watching last year to playing with these guys I feel like it has definitely been a great improvement."

Even, running phenom Jamar Jefferson admitted to reporters that the defense has been hitting him a lot harder than last year.

Beaver fans should be optimistic about this defense, especially with key defensive players returning from injuries soon. 

"It's been tough," explained defensive back Jalen Moore, who is on track to return to the field soon. "All I can do is stay positive and take it day by day....Really just trying to stay positive and helping the team out as much as I can. That's all I'm worried about, team first."