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# Apple Cup 2025: Cougars Looking to Rebound With Huskies Seeking Revenge in Pullman
- URL: https://www.emeraldcityspectrum.com/apple-cup-2025-preview-washington-state-cougars-washington-huskies/
- Published: 2025-09-17T16:30:14.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-08T05:36:32.000Z
- Author: Corbin Smith
- Tags: Cougars, Jaxon Potter, Jimmy Rogers, Huskies, Jonah Coleman, Demond Williams Jr., Apple Cup

The state of Washington’s most storied football rivalry is back this weekend as the Washington Huskies travel across the mountains to face the Washington State Cougars in the 117th Boeing Apple Cup.

Kickoff is set for 4:30 PM Saturday at Gesa Field, with the game broadcast nationally on CBS.

Washington enters the contest unbeaten at 2-0, fresh off decisive victories over UC Davis and Colorado State and a Week 3 bye. The Huskies’ ground game has been dominant, powered by running back Jonah Coleman. The junior racked up 177 yards against Colorado State and tied a school record with five touchdowns against UC Davis. Sophomore quarterback Demond Williams Jr. has complemented that rushing attack with efficient play through the air and the ability to extend drives with his legs.

The Cougars, meanwhile, come in at 2-1 under first-year head coach Jimmy Rogers. Washington State opened the season with wins over Idaho and San Diego State before stumbling last week in a horrific road loss at North Texas. A major storyline is the unsettled quarterback position. Jaxon Potter began the season as the starter but was pulled at halftime last week, leaving Rogers to evaluate redshirt freshman Julian Dugger and veteran Zevi Eckhaus as potential options.

Rogers has emphasized defense and toughness in his first season, and the Cougars will need both against a Husky offense averaging over 50 points per game. WSU has shown flashes of strength up front, but slowing Coleman behind Washington’s improved offensive line will be their stiffest test yet.

History favors the Huskies. Washington leads the all-time series 76-34-6\. Washington State has not beaten its rival in Pullman since 2012\. Still, the Cougars carry added motivation. A win Saturday would mark back-to-back Apple Cup victories for the first time in 17 years.

Oddsmakers have installed Washington as a heavy favorite by more than three touchdowns, which should not surprise considering Washington State got shellacked in Denton last weekend. Yet rivalry games often defy the numbers. A sold-out crowd is expected in Pullman, and the Cougars believe they can rise to the moment.

“The Apple Cup is about pride in this state,” Rogers said earlier this week. “Our players know what it means, and we’ll be ready.”

For Washington, a victory would continue a strong start under second-year coach Jedd Fisch and further cement the Huskies as one of the Big Ten’s most dangerous teams. For Washington State, it’s about proving themselves against a bitter rival — and keeping the Apple Cup trophy in Pullman.

One way or another, Saturday promises to add another dramatic chapter to one of college football’s oldest rivalries.