Instant Analysis: Oregon State-Cincinnati

In the world of football analysis, there are some games that merit a simple and reductionist approach. Thursday night's game between Oregon State and Cincinnati was one of them.

It can't be stated more plainly: from blocked punts to muffed punts (on the two-yard line, no less) to three interceptions, Mike Riley's Beavers--who conquered USC last season--are a very different and noticeably more impotent ballclub. Cincinnati, a revved-up squad playing physical football for new head coach Brian Kelly, took advantage.

On some nights, football analysis doesn't have to be complicated. It doesn't have to be lengthy, either.