(Editor's note: Oregon State sophomore running back Ken Simonton will share a weekly diary with ESPN.com throughout the season. For more information on the Beavers, visit the official OSU site.)

Nov. 10, 1999

When I first arrived at Oregon State, I roomed with defensive tackle Eric Manning. I remember going through the media guide and asking him, "Do you want to be apart of this history of losing seasons?" We both laughed because we knew there was no way that we were going to continue in that fashion. To finally end the streak was great, but it was more for the fans. It wasn't something that we focused on. We are concerned with winning.

Ending the streak did mean a lot to the players who are from Oregon because they witnessed it, but now we have to get back on track and focus on Arizona. Guys like me who are not from Oregon aren't satisfied. I'm looking to pick up the intensity.

Getting a bowl berth has to be a goal. I don't want bowl officials to give us anything just because we finally broke the streak. I don't want them to have pity on us and invite us to a bowl. I want to earn it a berth and be a good opponent for somebody. We need to win these next two games.

The sellout crowds that we had against Cal and UCLA were great. It makes a big difference when we can see that support. The Arizona game better sellout. If it doesn't, I will be very disappointed in our fans.

Maybe just ending the losing streak is good enough for the fans, but it's not for us. I fully expect this game to be sold out. This is the last home game of the season. If we can't bring out 35,000 fans, then we are not doing something right on the field.

Of all the guys that block up front for us, Aaron Cook is the worrywart on the line. When things are not going smoothly, he's the first person to let you know. He's the hardest worker on the front line. I know day in and day out, Cook is going to give his all. He's very aggressive. Cook was one of the first players who had an impact in turning this program around. He started to put so much more effort into his play, and the games meant a lot more. I never have to worry about Cook -- he comes to play everyday.

Cal played a good defensive game against us (in our 17-7 win), but sometimes it looks worse than it really is. I feel we have the best defense in the Pac-10. Our offense has to face them everyday in practice and we don't get anything. Cal had the toughest front that I have seen. But, we don't always do things we are supposed to do. When you change your game plan you tend to play into your opponent's strengths a little more.

The Bears couldn't stop our offense. We can run against anyone. It was just a matter of time before their defense busted. If I had been 100 percent against Cal, I would have had some long runs. Also, if we hadn't jumped offsides on the shuffle pass, it would have been a touchdown. We could have had some big plays. That's the thing about an aggressive defense like Cal's -- it takes a lot away but it gives up some big plays. The aggressiveness helps and it hurts.

Arizona is not as risky as Cal. The key to winning the Arizona game is to not give up any turnovers. We don't lose games when we hold onto the ball. In each of our losses, we had multiple fumbles and interceptions.

I like Trung Canidate's style of play. He is a very strong runner. When he hits a seam and breaks a tackle, he's gone. That's what I'm trying to develop my game into by next year.

As for my injury, my ribs feel much better. During the Washington State week, I had to keep busy on the sideline to stay loose. I wore specially made padding which covered that area. Last week, I didn't have any problems. I'm good. I'm playing. I'm ready to go.