The Oregon State Beavers have a rich history in NCAA football, dating back to their founding in 1892. The program has seen its share of ups and downs over the years, and the last 10 head coaches have played an integral role in shaping the franchise’s identity.
From the highs of Mike Riley’s 14-year tenure to the struggles of Gary Andersen’s short-lived stint, each coach has left their mark on the program.
In recent years, Jonathan Smith has brought renewed optimism to the franchise, leading the Beavers to their first bowl game in a decade in 2021.
With a new era on the horizon, it will be interesting to see how the next generation of football coaches will guide the Oregon State football program into the future.
1. Jonathan Smith
- Tenure: 2018–present
- Co-Pac-12 Coach of the Year (2022)
- Overall record: 34–35
Jonathan Smith’s return to Oregon State in November 2017 as head coach was a homecoming for the beloved former QB. Inheriting a struggling team, Smith’s early years were marked by rebuilding and resilience.
Smith’s perseverance paid off in 2021 when the Beavers made their first winning season (7-6) and bowl appearance in a decade. The following year, Smith’s vision truly came to fruition as Oregon State established a historic 10-win season, their third in program history.
This remarkable turnaround culminated in a dominant Las Vegas Bowl victory and a coveted No. 17 ranking in the final AP Poll.
2. Gary Andersen
- Tenure: 2015–2017
- Overall record: 63-70
Gary Andersen’s tenure as head coach of the Oregon State Beavers was a tumultuous one. Arriving with great expectations after success at Utah State and Wisconsin, Andersen’s team struggled to find their footing in the Pac-12.
Despite showing flashes of potential, the Beavers never achieved sustained success under Andersen. His 7-23 record, which included a winless start to the 2017 season, ultimately led to his abrupt resignation midway through that year.
Andersen’s time at Oregon State remains a curious case in his coaching career. While his defensive skills were evident, he was unable to replicate the magic he found at other programs.
3. Dennis Erickson
- Tenure: 1999–2002
- 3× Pac-10 Coach of the Year
- 3× Big East Coach of the Year
- College Football Hall of Fame
Dennis Erickson arrived in Corvallis in 1999, getting a struggling Oregon State football program mired in a long losing streak. Despite the challenges, Erickson, with two national championships at Miami, injected a much-needed dose of excitement.
In his first season, Erickson led the Beavers to their first winning record in 29 years and their first bowl appearance in 35 years. The 2000 season proved to be even more historic. Erickson guided Oregon State to a share of the Pac-10 conference title, their first since 1964, and a victory in the Fiesta Bowl.
Despite continued success, Erickson’s departure to the NFL in 2003 left some fans disappointed. However, his legacy remains significant.
4. Mike Riley
- Tenure: 1997–1998, 2003–2014
- Pac-10 Coach of the Year (2008)
Mike Riley’s two stints as head coach at Oregon State University were nothing short of transformative. Inheriting a program mired in mediocrity, Riley installed a culture of winners and led the Beavers to unprecedented heights.
During his first stint, he made a 5-6 record in 1998, the best since 1971. Upon his return in 2003, Riley ushered in a golden age for Oregon State football. He amassed a program-record 93 wins, guiding the Beavers to eight bowl appearances and two conference championships.
Riley also coached numerous All-Americans and oversaw the development of players like wide receiver Brandin Cooks and running back Steven Jackson.
5. Jerry Pettibone
- Tenure: 1991–1996
Jerry Pettibone’s tenure as Oregon State’s head coach from 1991 to 1996 was a mixed bag. His early years were challenging, with only one win each in 1991 and 1992. Nevertheless, things started to turn around in 1993 and 1994, with the Beavers posting four wins each year.
In 1993, Pettibone built a competitive squad known for its strong running game. He was also named co-runner-up for the Division I-A Coach of the Year award.
Unfortunately, the success wasn’t sustained. The Beavers slumped to 1-10 in 1995 and 2-9 in 1996, leading to Pettibone’s resignation in late November. Jerry was succeeded by Mike Riley, who ushered in a new era of prosperity for the franchise.
6. Dave Kragthorpe
- Tenure: 1985–1990
- Pac-10 Coach of the Year (1989)
- Overall Record: 41–69–2
Nicknamed “Air Express” for his innovative passing offense, Dave Kragthorpe brought Corvallis a new level of offensive firepower. Though his overall record was 17-48-2, his time at Oregan State Beavers was competitive and often entertaining.
Dave is credited with laying the groundwork for future success by modernizing the Beavers program and attracting talented NCAA players. His best season was during the 1988 season where the program made a 4-7-1 record.
While Kragthorpe didn’t achieve sustained winning seasons and playoff appearances, his legacy lies in his impact on the program’s culture and his commitment to an exciting brand of football.
7. Joe Avezzano
- Tenure: 1980–1984
- Overall Record: 6–47–2
Joe Avezzano’s head coaching stint at the Oregon State Beavers was a challenging one, marked by both adversity and a few glimmers of hope. Despite inheriting a struggling program, Avezzano’s run was defined by a win-loss record of 6-47-2, the worst in Beavers’ history.
His tenure covered two 14-game losing streaks, only broken by a dramatic 31-28 comeback victory over Fresno State in 1981, then the biggest comeback in NCAA history. This lone bright spot offered a glimpse of Avezzano’s coaching potential, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the overall struggles.
Avezzano was eventually let go after the 1984 season, but his career continued with success as an NFL assistant coach.
8. Craig Fertig
- Tenure: 1976–1979
- Overall Record: 10–34–1
Craig Fertig’s tenure as head coach of the Oregon State Beavers was one defined by struggles and challenges. Inheriting a program fresh off a losing season, Fertig, a former USC quarterback, faced the difficult task of rebuilding the Beavers in a competitive conference.
Despite flashes of potential, including a 2-10 record in his first season and the 1977 season’s 3-8 record, Fertig’s overall stint was marked by inconsistencies. Under him, the Beavers managed to win only 10 games in four seasons, leading to his dismissal in 1979.
While Fertig’s time at Oregon State may not have been a resounding success, his legacy is one of perseverance in the face of adversity, even if the ultimate results fall short of expectations.
9. Dee Andros
- Tenure: 1965–1975
- Overall Record: 62–80–2
Dee Andros, fondly nicknamed “The Great Pumpkin,” led Oregon State football from 1965 to 1975. His stint began with a bang, guiding the 1967 team to victories over top-ranked USC and Purdue.
Known for his fiery sideline presence and orange jacket, Andros achieved five winning seasons in his first seven years. However, later seasons saw shortcomings, culminating in his resignation and transition to athletic director.
With a .438 win percentage, Andros left a lasting mark on the program. His 1967 upset streak remains legendary, and his great leadership solidified his place as a beloved Beaver figure.
10. Tommy Prothro
- Tenure: 1955–1964
- Overall Record: 104–55–5
- College Football Hall of Fame
Tommy Prothro wasn’t just Oregon State’s head coach from 1955 to 1964, he was an architect of its golden age. Prothro led the Beavers to two conference championships and Rose Bowl appearances in 1956 and 1964.
The head coach fostered offensive stars like Heisman-winning quarterback Terry Baker, revolutionizing the college football game.
Prothro’s decade at the helm saw only one losing season (1959’s 3-7), leaving a legacy of exciting football and national recognition for Oregon State. Though he departed for UCLA, his effect on Corvallis remains cemented in the Beavers lore.