With starting slot receiver Shane Morales still recovering from a strained muscle in his right hip, Casey Kjos has been getting extra work.

The third-year sophomore was thrown into action last Saturday when Morales couldn’t play after the first drive. It was his first significant playing time since joining the Beavers. He didn’t make a catch, but performed well.

Kjos will make his first career start against California on Saturday if Morales can’t play. Morales has yet to practice this week.

Coach Mike Riley has faith in Kjos, and believes he can take Morales’ place next season as the possession receiver.

“It felt great to be out there in that situation,” Kjos said. “It was a little weird at first. That’s the first time I played since high school, other than special teams. I’ve been working hard these past years to get in there.”

Kjos came from Middleton, Ohio, three years ago. He quickly impressed the coaches with his ability, and played special teams as a true freshman.

A back injury at the end of that season required surgery. As he made his comeback, the nagging back injury and a hip injury slowed his progress and forced him to redshirt the following season.

He has been healthy throughout this season and worked into the backup slot role, but was rarely used other than in mop-up time.

“I’m feeling great, the best I’ve felt in a long time,” Kjos said. “This is a great opportunity for me to get some playing time, and give me a jumpstart for next year. If I can follow Shane’s example that would be great.”

Fast start, good finish

The Beavers have outscored opponents 174-44 in the first quarter when playing at home the last three seasons. They usually tire and have to hang on for the win at the end.

However, in the last two games — one home and one away — the team started fast and finished strong.

“One of the factors in the last couple weeks is we get a feel for what we might do in the first half,” Riley said. “The players have confidence and build on that in the second half.”

Players have fought hard early in the close recent games, and then took dominant control of the game in the second half.

“One thing I hope is developing is the competitive nature of our team,” Riley said. “We compete and win. Some people shrink from the game being close. Some rise up. I hope our team gets a feel for the rise.”

Tedford and Riley

Cal coach Jeff Tedford played quarterback for Riley when they were with the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 1988. They won the Grey Cup that season.

Tedford was also signed to his first pro contract in 1983 by Bud Riley, Mike’s father, who coached the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

“Jeff has done a great job of coaching for a long time,” Riley said. “Before that he was a highly respected player. One of my dad’s greatest moments was signing him. So we go back a long time. He’s a great guy with a great family. And when he got that Cal job he turned it around and made it one of the best in the Pac-10 and nation.”

Stroughter numbers

Senior wide receiver Sammie Stroughter continues to move up OSU’s career receiving list. He is third in yards (2,272), fifth in receptions (144) and seventh in touchdowns (13).

Third is where he’ll end his career in yards, but Stroughter can reach third in receptions and break into the top five in touchdowns before he’s done after four more games.

Moevao update

Starting quarterback Lyle Moevao continued to take turns with the first string offense Wednesday as he recovers from a throwing shoulder injury.

No more tickets

Tickets for Saturday’s game are sold out.