CORVALLIS — Rushing the passer is serious business.

But when Oregon State outside linebacker Zakaih Saez is sprinting at the quarterback, it might look a bit different.

“When I’m running out there, I’m smiling,” Saez said, flashing his pearly whites. “When I get there, it’s serious time. And then after the play, celebrating with my teammates, I’m smiling for them. I make a play, I’m smiling. I try to find any joy in anything I do. Have fun with it.”

Those around the program describe the redshirt sophomore’s positivity as infectious. As pressure ramps up with the season approaching, Saez is loose and determined to help lead a turnaround.

That pays dividends for a Beavers defense seeking to improve on last season’s disappointing output — including a FBS-worst seven sacks all year.

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