CORVALLIS -- Jake Cookus lifted the collar of his black T-shirt to wipe away the tears quickly welling in his eyes.
The Oregon State assistant had settled into the desk chair in his office Wednesday inside the Valley Football Center following his daily post-practice run, reflecting upon a tumultuous year, packed with heartbreak both professional and personal.
Much is uncertain for Cookus and his future after Saturday, when he will coach the Beavers in the Civil War rivalry that 17 years ago made his name legendary throughout the state.
Cookus does not know where he will have a job next season.