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By Jayesh Pagar
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Oregon State could be without its most important offensive player for one of the biggest games of its season.
The Beavers are preparing for a difficult road trip to Boise State, but their chances have taken a major hit after an update on quarterback Braden Atkinson's availability.
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ESPN's Pete Thamel reported that Atkinson is not expected to play this weekend. The sophomore is dealing with a hand injury he suffered during Saturday's 42-21 loss to Texas State.
"Star Oregon State quarterback Braden Atkinson is not expected to play this weekend at Boise State. He's dealing with hand injury suffered in the Texas State game on Saturday. He leads the nation in passing yards," Thamel reported.
The injury occurred in the third quarter against Texas State. Atkinson hit his throwing hand on a helmet while attempting a pass. He went to the locker room for evaluation and did not return.
The timing could hardly be worse for Oregon State. Atkinson has been one of the most productive quarterbacks in college football this season.
He leads the nation with 3,169 passing yards. He has also thrown 25 touchdowns against just three interceptions while completing 65.8% of his passes through nine games.
Atkinson's absence would leave a significant responsibility on backup Maalik Murphy. The former Texas and Duke quarterback is expected to get the opportunity if the starter cannot play.
Oregon State head coach JaMarcus Shephard had initially expressed hope that Atkinson would recover in time. However, the latest report and his doubtful designation on the Pac-12 availability report suggest the Beavers are preparing for his absence.
The Beavers enter the matchup at 5-4. The game also has added attention with ESPN's College GameDay visiting Boise.
Without the nation's leading passer, Oregon State faces a major challenge in trying to pull off a road upset.
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