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Washington state football news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Washington State opens 2026 at No. 17 Washington in the Apple Cup on Sunday.
The rivalry's first season opener marks new eras for both teams.
Background
The Apple Cup is the annual rivalry game between the University of Washington Huskies and Washington State Cougars. This year's game is historic as it is the first time the two teams meet in their season openers. Washington enters ranked 17th in the AP poll, while Washington State debuts under new head coach Kirby Moore. The game also highlights the changing landscape of college football, with UW in the Big Ten and WSU in the reanimated Pac-12.
How it unfolded
- Nov 30, 1900The first Apple Cup was played, ending in a 5-5 tie.
- Sep 20, 2025Washington defeated Washington State 59-24 in the previous year's matchup.
- Sep 6, 2026The 118th Apple Cup is played at Husky Stadium, with Washington State facing No. 17 Washington in the season opener for both teams.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Washington leads the all-time series 77-34-6, according to the school's athletic department.
- Analysts
- A Spokesman-Review columnist predicts a UW 27, WSU 13 victory, citing WSU's inexperience on the offensive line.
- Support
- WSU coach Kirby Moore has brought in 50 new players, including 29 transfers, aiming to rebuild the program.
- Caution
- Some analysts warn that WSU faces a tough opening gauntlet with three games against Power Four teams, so early results should be taken with caution.