Oregon State’s Secondary Strengthens with Skyler Thomas Leading Charge

Oregon State’s football secondary is gearing up for the 2024 season with renewed confidence, led by safety Skyler Thomas. After a challenging previous year, the team is looking to improve its performance, particularly in creating turnovers and strengthening its defensive presence on the field.

In the 2023 season, defensive back Sailasa Vadrawale III arrived at Oregon State as a transfer from California, where he had limited playing time. Initially expected to serve as a backup at nickelback, Vadrawale was thrust into a starting role when Noble Thomas Jr. suffered a knee injury early in the season. This unexpected challenge proved to be a steep learning curve for Vadrawale, who acknowledged his struggles with confidence. “You gotta believe you’re the best. A lot of times last year I struggled with that,” he reflected on his experience, emphasizing his growth since then.

Oregon State’s secondary coach and co-defensive coordinator, Rod Chance, expressed optimism about the unit’s progress. “I think overall we’re taking a huge step forward,” he stated, noting that the team has taken responsibility for its development this summer. Players organized their own meetings to enhance their understanding of the defense, with coaches like Chance and AJ Cooper remaining accessible to support their growth.

Only Skyler Thomas, a redshirt senior and one of the six team captains from last year, returns to the secondary this season. Having missed the entirety of the 2023 season due to injury, Thomas made a significant comeback, leading the team with 81 tackles and nine pass breakups in 2024. His leadership has been pivotal, with senior safety Tyrice Ivy Jr. describing him as “another coach.”

Vadrawale noted the balance Thomas strikes between creating a positive environment and demanding professionalism on the field. “Once you’re on the grass, it’s all business with him and he’s locked in,” Vadrawale said, highlighting the importance of Thomas’s presence in maintaining focus during practice.

As the season progresses, young talents like true freshman Trey Glasper are stepping into the spotlight. Glasper, who also excelled as a wide receiver in high school, joined the program after graduating early. Chance praised his natural instincts and ball skills, indicating that he will likely see playing time this year.

The depth of Oregon State’s secondary has improved significantly, with players like sophomore Exodus Ayers, junior transfer TJ Crandall, and redshirt senior Kobe Singleton adding to the mix. Crandall, who previously played at West Virginia, is adjusting well to the Pacific Northwest style of play, while Singleton aims to bounce back from injuries and adapt to a new system.

At nickelback, both Vadrawale and redshirt senior Mason White are competing for repetitions as Noble Thomas Jr. works towards full recovery. Chance expressed excitement about the variety of options available for defending slot receivers, which will enhance the team’s overall defensive strategy.

Ivy noted that the NCAA’s decision to grant additional eligibility to certain players allowed him to return for another season, a choice he described as “an easy decision.” His performance this spring has drawn praise, culminating in a notable interception during training camp.

The coaching staff is focused on building a strong, cohesive unit that can tackle the challenges of a demanding season. With the goal of increasing turnovers, they are implementing a strategy centered around the “Four Ps” — preparedness, physicality, purpose, and pursuit. Chance emphasized the need for all players to understand their roles, which will enable them to act decisively on the field.

Reflecting on last season’s challenges, where the team recorded only 12 turnovers, Chance is hopeful that the lessons learned will translate into improved performance. “Our calling card as a defense will be our pursuit,” he concluded, highlighting the importance of teamwork and communication.

As the season approaches, Oregon State’s revamped secondary is poised to make a significant impact, with veteran leadership and young talent ready to rise to the occasion.