PULLMAN — As the Washington State Cougars gear up for the 118th Apple Cup against the No. 17 Washington Huskies, the memory of last season's lopsided defeat lingers in the minds of the players. Kaden Beatty, who played a backup role in last year's contest, recalls how Washington capitalized on a dominant fourth quarter to secure the trophy, leaving a bitter taste that has fueled the Cougars' motivation for redemption.
Beatty, now a starting defensive tackle, expressed his eagerness to showcase the team's growth since that game. "I’ve lived with that now for an entire 365 days and some," Beatty said. "So now we can go out and show who we really are and show that last year that wasn’t what we’re about." This Sunday, the Cougars will have their chance at 1 p.m. at Husky Stadium in Seattle, where they aim to reclaim pride in this storied rivalry.
To achieve victory, WSU's defense must contain the dynamic dual-threat quarterback Demond Williams Jr., who was instrumental in last year's game with five total touchdowns. Williams, who experienced a tumultuous offseason involving a brief transfer portal stint, is back at the helm of a revamped Huskies offense. The team has seen significant changes, losing key players such as running back Jonah Coleman and wide receiver Denzel Boston, both of whom made notable contributions in the previous Apple Cup.
Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Trent Bray, the Cougars will face the challenge of stopping Williams and his new supporting cast, which includes emerging talents like receivers Christian Moss, Rashid Williams, and returner Dezmen Roebuck. The starting running back for Washington this season will be Quaid Carr, a highly touted recruit who is looking to make his mark as he enters his second year.
However, pressuring Williams will not be an easy task, as he is shielded by what is expected to be one of the Big Ten's top offensive lines. This unit features five-star freshman Kodi Greene, returning freshman All-American John Mills, and seasoned fifth-year senior Drew Azzopardi. The Cougars will rely on defensive ends Matyus McLain and Linus Zunk, who have stood out during fall camp, to generate the necessary pressure on Williams.
"I just think we gotta do a good job of keeping him in the pocket," said WSU linebacker Keith Brown. "Don’t let him run free as much as he wants. He’s a good player, so I think as long as we can keep him in the pocket and make him throw the ball downfield, we’ll be in a good spot." Coach Kirby Moore echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a collective defensive effort to contain the quarterback.
On the offensive side, WSU quarterback Caden Pinnick will make his first start in the Cougar colors. Pinnick is familiar with Husky Stadium, having previously played there for UC Davis, where he completed 50% of his passes for 50 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The pressure will be on him to improve those numbers against a formidable Washington pass rush led by true freshman Ramzak Fruean and veteran Jacob Lane.
Moore highlighted the importance of Pinnick's command and communication with his teammates as they prepare for the game. "We gotta be accurate. We gotta make great decisions," he stated, emphasizing the need for Pinnick to capitalize on opportunities when they arise.
Despite the teams now competing in different conferences, the Apple Cup remains a cherished rivalry for both sides. The Cougars approach this game with the same reverence as they would in a traditional Pac-12 matchup. Moore, who has ties to the Huskies from his time as a graduate assistant, noted that the rivalry still holds significant meaning for both teams and the state of Washington.
For Beatty and his teammates, winning the Apple Cup represents more than just a victory; it symbolizes pride and tradition. "Winning the Apple Cup would mean absolutely everything," Beatty said. "If you’re wearing crimson and gray, this is why you watch on Saturdays — well now Sunday. It’s something that I’ve worked for all offseason, something that I’ve definitely pinned on my calendar to look at and something that I’m excited for. So I’m just thrilled to be a part of it and to make history."
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