Washington State Cougars

Washington State opened the Kirby Moore era with a 24-10 loss at Washington, but the final score flatters the Huskies. The Cougars' defense held Washington to just 10 points through three quarters and stopped the Huskies on two fourth-down attempts, including one at the goal line. Quarterback Caden Pinnick, making his FBS debut after a standout FCS season at UC Davis, threw for 142 yards and scored on an 11-yard keeper. The game was closer than the 23-point betting line suggested, as WSU covered as a heavy underdog. The Cougars showed they can compete defensively against a ranked opponent, but offensive struggles, including two missed field goals, kept them from pulling off the upset.

Caden Pinnick won the quarterback job over Owen Eshelman and started the Apple Cup. He showed mobility with a rushing touchdown and managed the game without turnovers, though he did throw one interception that led to a Washington score. Pinnick's passing numbers were modest, and the Cougars' offense failed to generate consistent downfield threats. The coaching staff will need Pinnick to be more efficient and accurate as the season progresses, especially against tougher non-conference and Pac-12 competition. Eshelman remains a capable backup, but Pinnick's experience and dual-threat ability give him the edge moving forward.

Despite losing six key defensive linemen to Iowa State in the offseason, Washington State's rebuilt front performed admirably against Washington. The Cougars limited the Huskies to 24 points and forced multiple fourth-down stops. Transfers like Matyus McLain and Linus Zunk, who brought pass-rushing credentials from the FCS and Vanderbilt respectively, contributed to a defensive effort that kept WSU in the game. The interior, featuring Kaden Beatty, Damarjhe Lewis, Paul Hutson III, and Jirah Leaupepetele, was not exposed as a major weakness. If this unit can maintain its level of play, the Cougars' defense could be a strength rather than a liability.

Kicker Jack Stevens, who was reliable last season with 16-of-19 field goals, had a rough opener. He missed a 52-yard attempt on WSU's first drive and a 32-yarder in the third quarter, both of which could have narrowed the deficit. Stevens did convert a 42-yard attempt in the fourth quarter, but the two misses were costly in a game decided by 14 points. The Cougars will need Stevens to regain his form, as close conference games could hinge on field goal accuracy. Punter Max Dean and returner Tank Hawkins had limited opportunities but will be counted on to provide field position advantages in future games.

Washington State's schedule does not get easier, with a trip to Kansas State next, where they are a 19.5-point underdog. The Cougars will face a Wildcats team that is 1-0 and has a strong power rating. After that, WSU enters the new Pac-12, which includes Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Texas State, and Utah State. The Cougars have the advantage of being one of the two former Power Five programs in the conference, with resources that Mountain West newcomers lack. If the defense continues to play well and Pinnick develops, WSU could compete for a high finish in the conference, but the offense must improve to avoid falling behind early in games.