Rivalry
Rivalry on Wazzu: a running collection of 3 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on rivalry in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around rivalry, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.
Washington Huskies survive Apple Cup scare, top WSU Cougars
## Huskies Hold On: Washington Edges WSU in Nail-Biting Apple Cup Seattle – The Washington Huskies emerged victorious in the 118th Apple Cup, securing an 11-7 win over the Washington State Cougars after a tense, back-and-forth contest. While the Huskies ultimately prevailed, the game wasn’t without its challenges, as a series of unforced errors threatened to derail their victory. Ultimately, a decisive touchdown from Jayden Limar proved to be the difference, solidifying Washington’s win and extending their Apple Cup dominance. The game underscored a narrative of resilience for the Huskies, who leaned heavily on a strong defensive showing to contain the Cougar offense. Both teams struggled to consistently move the ball, leading to a low-scoring affair characterized by tight margins and crucial stops. Washington’s ability to capitalize on opportunities, particularly Limar’s game-winning score, proved pivotal in securing the win. This victory marks another chapter in the storied Apple Cup rivalry, and sets the stage for continued competition between the two Washington universities. For Washington, the focus now shifts toward preparing for their upcoming bowl game and building momentum for the future. For WSU, the loss provides an opportunity for reflection and a renewed commitment to improvement as they look ahead to the 2024 season. Want to know who else on the Huskies roster is poised for a big leap? Check out our article, "Three Washington Huskies poised to take big strides in 2026 season," for a look at the future of UW football.
WSU coaching legends share memories and a collective groan over modern college chaos
## Remembering the Sidelines: WSU Coaching Legends Reflect on Apple Cups and a Changing Game For nearly three decades, a select group of coaches witnessed the ebb and flow of the Apple Cup rivalry firsthand. Now, four former WSU sideline leaders – individuals who collectively guided the Cougars through 27 Apple Cup battles – are sharing their memories, insights, and a collective sigh about the evolution of college football. This exclusive piece offers a rare glimpse into inflection points in their careers, from defining victories to heartbreaking defeats, all framed by the unique intensity of the Washington-WSU rivalry. These veteran voices don't shy away from discussing the seismic shifts impacting the sport. They address the increasing pressures on athletes, the complexities of the transfer portal, and the ever-present influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. While nostalgia for a simpler era is evident, their perspectives are grounded in a realistic understanding of the current landscape. Beyond the wins and losses, the coaches reflect on the enduring spirit of the Apple Cup – the passion of the fans, the pride of the players, and the significance of this historic rivalry. For deeper coverage of the most recent Apple Cup, check out our recap of Washington's narrow escape in "Apple Cup recap: Washington Huskies escape with win over WSU Cougars." Join us as these coaching legends share their stories and offer a poignant look back at a beloved tradition.
Will the Apple Cup survive? It’s complicated for Washington, WSU
## Will the Apple Cup Survive? It's Complicated. The future of the Apple Cup, a rivalry steeped in over a century of tradition between the Washington Huskies and Washington State Cougars, hangs in the balance. While the immediate future appears secure—both teams recently signed a five-year agreement to continue the series—beyond 2029, uncertainty reigns. This situation stems directly from Washington’s departure for the Big Ten and Washington State’s subsequent inability to secure a comparable conference home. Currently, there’s no contract guaranteeing the game’s continuation after this initial five-year window. Negotiations between the universities and the incoming Pac-12 members (Oregon State and Utah) have proven challenging, with key sticking points revolving around revenue sharing and conference affiliation. The lack of a binding agreement means the Apple Cup’s fate rests on ongoing discussions and a willingness from all parties to prioritize the historic rivalry. **Here's a breakdown of the key factors influencing the Apple Cup's survival:** 1. **Conference Stability:** The Pac-12’s ongoing restructuring is paramount. A stable, financially viable conference would provide a stronger foundation for maintaining the series. 2. **Negotiating Power:** Washington State's bargaining position is weaker without a conference affiliation. 3. **Fan Demand:** The enduring passion for the Apple Cup provides significant leverage, though it alone cannot guarantee its future. 4. **Institutional Commitment:** Ultimately, the universities must prioritize the game and be willing to compromise. For deeper insight into the broader landscape of the former Pac-12, check out our article, "Where Washington Huskies, WSU Cougars are projected to go bowling.