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50 Facts About Washington State Cougars Football

Minni Salter

Written by Minni Salter

Published: 10 Sep 2024

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Source: Wsucougars.com

What makes Washington State Cougars Football so special? The Washington State Cougars football program, representing Washington State University, boasts a rich history dating back to 1894. From their first season to their memorable Rose Bowl win in 1915, the Cougars have experienced numerous highs and lows. With a current seating capacity of 35,117 at Martin Stadium, the team enjoys strong support from dedicated fans. Notable coaches like Babe Hollingbery and Mike Leach have left lasting legacies, while standout players have earned accolades and set records. The Cougars' fierce rivalries, especially the Apple Cup against the Washington Huskies, add to the excitement and tradition of this storied program.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Washington State Cougars football program has a rich history dating back to 1894, with notable milestones like their 1915 Rose Bowl win and four conference titles.
  • The Cougars have faced challenges and celebrated successes, including memorable wins and strong fan support, making their legacy a source of inspiration for players and fans alike.
Table of Contents
01Early Beginnings and Milestones
02Stadium and Facilities
03Records and Achievements
04Rivalries and Traditions
05Leadership and Coaching
06Historical Rivalries
07Uniforms and Identity
08Notable Coaches and Players
09Recent Success and Challenges
10Fan Engagement and Attendance
11Leadership and Awards
12Memorable Wins and Moments
13The Legacy of Washington State Cougars Football

Early Beginnings and Milestones

The Washington State Cougars football program has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Let's dive into some of the key moments and milestones that have shaped this storied team.

  1. First Season: The Cougars' football journey began in 1894, finishing their inaugural season with a balanced record of 1-1.
  2. First Paid Coach: William L. Allen became the first paid head coach from 1900 to 1902, achieving a 6-3-1 record.
  3. Early Success: Under William Henry Dietz, the team boasted a 17-2-1 record from 1915 to 1917, including a Rose Bowl victory in 1915.
  4. Rose Bowl Win: The 1915 Rose Bowl win remains the Cougars' only victory in a Rose Bowl or New Year's Six Bowl.
  5. Babe Hollingbery: Coaching for 17 seasons, Babe Hollingbery led the team to a 93-53-14 record and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1979.
  6. Hollingbery Fieldhouse: Named after Babe Hollingbery, this facility was dedicated in 1963 and serves many of the university's athletic teams.
  7. World War II: The Cougars did not field a team in 1943 or 1944 due to the global conflict.
  8. Phil Sarboe: Post-war, Phil Sarboe returned as head coach, posting a 17-26-3 record over five seasons.

Stadium and Facilities

The home of the Cougars, Martin Stadium, and other facilities have played a crucial role in the team's history and development.

  1. Current Seating Capacity: Martin Stadium, opened in 1972, has a seating capacity of 35,117.
  2. Field Surface: The stadium's field is covered with FieldTurf, ensuring a durable and safe playing surface.
  3. Conference Affiliation: The Cougars are proud members of the Pac-12 Conference in NCAA Division I FBS.

Records and Achievements

The Cougars have a storied record filled with notable achievements and memorable moments.

  1. All-Time Record: The team holds an all-time record of 579-581-45 (.499).
  2. Bowl Record: Their bowl game record stands at 8-10 (.444).
  3. Unclaimed National Titles: The Cougars have one unclaimed national title from 1915.
  4. Conference Titles: Washington State has won four conference titles: in 1917, 1930, 1997, and 2002.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions are the heartbeat of college football, and the Cougars have their fair share.

  1. Rivalries: The Cougars' main rivals are the Washington Huskies, with whom they compete in the Apple Cup rivalry game.
  2. Consensus All-Americans: Eight players from the Cougars have been named Consensus All-Americans.
  3. Fight Song: The "Washington State University Fight Song" is a staple at games.
  4. Mascot: Butch T. Cougar is the beloved mascot of the team.
  5. Marching Band: The Cougar Marching Band adds to the game-day atmosphere.

Leadership and Coaching

Leadership has been pivotal in shaping the Cougars' football program over the years.

  1. Outfitter: Nike is the official outfitter for the Cougars.
  2. Website: The official website of the team is WSUCougars.com.
  3. Athletic Director: Anne McCoy currently serves as the athletic director.
  4. Head Coach: As of the 2023 season, Jake Dickert is the head coach, holding a record of 19-18 (.514).

Historical Rivalries

The Cougars have several historical rivalries that have added excitement and drama to their seasons.

  1. Historical Rivalry with Idaho: Known as the "Battle of the Palouse," this rivalry is one of the oldest.
  2. Historical Rivalry with Oregon State: Another significant rivalry, often impacting conference standings.
  3. Historical Rivalry with Washington: The Apple Cup rivalry with the Washington Huskies is one of the most famous in college football.

Uniforms and Identity

The Cougars' uniforms and colors are iconic symbols of their identity and pride.

  1. Current Uniforms: The team's uniforms feature the iconic crimson and gray colors.
  2. Past Conferences: The Cougars have been part of several conferences, including being independent and part of the Pacific Coast Conference.

Notable Coaches and Players

Several coaches and players have left an indelible mark on the program.

  1. Notable Coaches: Coaches like William Henry Dietz, Babe Hollingbery, and Mike Leach have made significant contributions.
  2. Mike Leach Era: Mike Leach coached from 2012 to 2019, leading the team to six bowl games.
  3. Nick Rolovich Era: Nick Rolovich took over in 2020 but was fired in 2021 for not complying with the state's COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
  4. Jake Dickert Interim Era: Jake Dickert stepped in as interim head coach and later became the permanent head coach.

Recent Success and Challenges

The Cougars have experienced both success and challenges in recent years.

  1. Recent Success: Under Jake Dickert, the team has shown improvement, including a notable 37-16 win over Texas Tech in 2023.
  2. Notable Players: Players like G. Minshew and Kyle Williams have made significant contributions.
  3. Roster Details: The current roster includes a diverse and talented group of athletes.
  4. Offensive Strengths: Players like Mason Juergens and Kyle Maxwell have bolstered the team's offense.
  5. Defensive Strengths: The defense has been strong, with players like Brock Dieu and Jackson Lataimua making key stops.
  6. Special Teams: Special teams play a crucial role, with contributions from players like Connor Calvert and Ryan Harris.

Fan Engagement and Attendance

The support from fans has been a driving force for the Cougars.

  1. Attendance Records: The team has seen record-breaking attendance figures, averaging 34,150 fans per game this season.
  2. Record-Breaking Performances: Performances like Nian Taylor's three touchdown catches against Idaho have tied school records.
  3. Turnover Margin: The Cougars have struggled with turnovers, ranking 111th nationally in turnover margin.
  4. Quarterback Development: WSU is known for developing top-notch quarterbacks, as highlighted by Sports Illustrated.
  5. Interceptions Returned for Touchdowns: The team has experienced a high number of interceptions returned for touchdowns.

Leadership and Awards

Strong leadership and individual awards have been a hallmark of the Cougars' program.

  1. Senior Leadership: Players like Love Jefferson and Dee Moronkola have shown strong senior leadership.
  2. Player Awards: Players like Kareem Anderson have been recognized for their outstanding performances.

Memorable Wins and Moments

The Cougars have had many memorable wins and moments that have defined their legacy.

  1. Historical Wins: A notable 23-6 victory over the Huskies in 1994 stands out.
  2. Recent Wins: Recent successes include a 31-24 win over the Huskies in overtime and a 37-16 rout over Texas Tech in 2023.
  3. Fan Engagement: The team has seen high fan engagement, averaging more than 34,720 fans per game this season.
  4. Legacy and Tradition: The program's rich history continues to inspire current players and fans alike.

The Legacy of Washington State Cougars Football

Washington State Cougars football has a rich history filled with memorable moments, legendary coaches, and standout players. From their first season in 1894 to their recent successes under Coach Jake Dickert, the Cougars have shown resilience and spirit. Key highlights include their 1915 Rose Bowl win, the impactful coaching of Babe Hollingbery, and the dynamic era under Mike Leach. Rivalries like the Apple Cup against the Washington Huskies add to the excitement and tradition. With a dedicated fan base and a commitment to excellence, the Cougars continue to be a formidable presence in college football. Their journey reflects a blend of tradition, passion, and a relentless pursuit of victory. As they move forward, the legacy of Washington State Cougars football remains a source of pride and inspiration for players and fans alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Washington State Cougars football unique?
Cougars football stands out for its rich history and passionate fan base. From pioneering the use of the forward pass to boasting a record number of bowl game appearances, this team has a knack for making waves in college football. Their mascot, Butch T. Cougar, and the iconic "Coug Walk" are just cherries on top of a tradition-rich program.
How many bowl games have the Cougars participated in?
Over the years, the Cougars have made their mark by appearing in more than 15 bowl games. This impressive tally includes memorable victories and nail-biting finishes, showcasing the team's resilience and fighting spirit on the national stage.
Who is the most famous player to come out of the Washington State Cougars football program?
Among the legends, Drew Bledsoe stands tall. As a quarterback for the Cougars in the early 1990s, Bledsoe led the team to notable successes, including a victory in the Apple Cup and a trip to the Rose Bowl. His stellar college career paved the way for a successful stint in the NFL, making him a household name among football fans.
What's the significance of the Apple Cup for the Cougars?
The Apple Cup is not just any game; it's the annual showdown between the Washington State Cougars and their fierce rivals, the University of Washington Huskies. This clash embodies the state's deep-rooted football rivalry, with bragging rights and the coveted Apple Cup trophy at stake. For Cougars fans, victory in this game can sweeten an entire season.
Can you tell me about a historic moment in Cougars football history?
One for the history books happened in 1992 when the Cougars clinched a dramatic win against the University of Utah in the Copper Bowl. This victory was monumental, marking the program's first bowl win in over 70 years. It was a turning point that reignited the team's competitive spirit and set a new standard for success.
What's the best way to experience a Cougars football game?
To truly soak in the Cougars football experience, attending a game at Martin Stadium is a must. Joining the sea of crimson and gray, participating in the cheers, and feeling the ground shake during the "Coug Walk" are experiences that fans cherish. Tailgating before the game adds to the camaraderie and excitement, making it an unforgettable day for any football enthusiast.
How has the Cougars' coaching staff impacted the team's success?
The coaching staff, with their strategic acumen and ability to inspire players, has been pivotal in shaping the team's fortunes. From developing raw talent to executing game-winning plays, their influence runs deep. Notable coaches have left their mark by leading the Cougars to bowl games and national rankings, proving that behind every great team is great leadership.

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