Team Information
Ground | Gesa Field at Martin Stadium |
City | Pullman, Washington |
Conference | Pac-12, |
Nickname | Cougars |
About Washington State Cougars Football
The Washington State Cougars football team represents Washington State University in college football. They compete in the NCAA Division I FBS and are part of the Pac-12 Conference. Established in 1894, they're known as the Cougars. Their home ground is Martin Stadium, seating 33,522 fans.
The team's biggest rivalry is with the Washington Huskies, culminating in the Apple Cup game every late November, which marks the end of their regular season. With a history of over a century, the Cougars have become a significant presence in college football.
Name of Team | Washington State Cougars Football |
First season | 1894 |
Athletic director | Patrick Chun |
Head coach | Jake Dickert |
Stadium | Martin Stadium |
Location | Pullman, Washington |
Conference | Pac-12 (1962–2024) |
Field surface | FieldTurf |
Conference titles | 4 (1917, 1930, 1997, 2002) |
Fight song | Washington State University Fight Song |
Mascot | Butch T. Cougar |
Rivals | Washington (rivalry) Idaho (rivalry) Northwest Championship Oregon State |
Consensus All-Americans | 8 |
Washington State Cougars Football Introduction
The Washington State Cougars Football team, representing Washington State University, has a long history dating back to its start in 1894. Their home stadium is the famous Martin Stadium, located in Pullman, Washington. Led by head coach Jake Dickert, they compete in the Pac-12 Conference and play on FieldTurf. The team's mascot, Butch T. Cougar, represents their a strong spirit on the field.
Over the years, they've won four conference titles in 1917, 1930, 1997, and 2002. Their big rivalries with teams like Washington and Idaho make their seasons even more exciting, along with their competition for the Northwest Championship against Oregon State. With eight Consensus All-Americans on their team, the Cougars keep working hard for success.
Washington State Cougars Football History
The Washington State Cougars Football program has a storied history that dates back to its founding year, 1894. Led by first head coach William Goodyear, the team began with just two games in their inaugural seasons.
Over the years, the program evolved under the guidance of coaches like William L. Allen, who notably served as the first paid head coach in 1900 and 1902, achieving an overall record of 6–3–1. Throughout its early years, the team competed in various conferences, including the Pacific Coast Conference and the Independent Circuit, before joining the Pac-12 Conference in 1962.
Despite facing challenges and transitions, the Cougars have amassed a respectable record, currently at 579–581–45 (.499). They've participated in numerous bowl games and maintain a competitive edge with an 8–10 record. The program boasts one unclaimed national title in 1915 and has clinched conference championships in 1917, 1930, 1997, and 2002.
Washington State Cougars Football Coach
The Washington State Cougars football program has seen the leadership of 34 head coaches since its inception in 1894. Throughout its illustrious history, these coaches have played pivotal roles in shaping the team's identity and success on the field.
Head Coach: Jake Dickert
As the current head coach of the Washington State Cougars football team, Jacob Dickert brings a wealth of experience and passion to the role. Before assuming the head coaching position, Dickert served as the defensive coordinator at Washington State University starting in 2020.
He began coaching after playing football at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, where he graduated in 2007. Dickert's coaching career has taken him to various institutions, including North Dakota State, South Dakota, and Wyoming, where he honed his skills in different coaching capacities. Since taking over as head coach in 2022, Dickert has continued to uphold the proud tradition of the Cougars.
Here’s the table shows the list of the head coaches of the Washington State Cougars Football program:
Seasons | Coach | Years | Record | Pct. |
2021–Present | Jake Dickert | 3 | 19–16 | .500 |
2020–2021 | Nick Rolovich | 2 | 5–6 | 1.000 |
2012–2019 | Mike Leach | 8 | 55–47 | 1.000 |
2008–2011 | Paul Wulff | 4 | 9–40 | 1.000 |
2003–2007 | Bill Doba | 5 | 30–29 | .500 |
1989–2002 | Mike Price | 14 | 83–78 | .650 |
1987–1988 | Dennis Erickson | 2 | 12–10–1 | .800 |
1978–1986 | Jim Walden | 9 | 44–52–4 | .500 |
1977 | Warren Powers | 1 | 6–5 | .500 |
1976 | Jackie Sherrill | 1 | 3–8 | .636 |
1968–1975 | Jim Sweeney | 8 | 26–59–1 | .833 |
1964–1967 | Bert Clark | 4 | 15–24–1 | .800 |
1956–1963 | Jim Sutherland | 8 | 37–39–4 | .454 |
1952–1955 | Al Kircher | 4 | 13–25–2 | .875 |
1950–1951 | Forest Evashevski | 2 | 11–6–2 | .500 |
1945–1949 | Phil Sarboe | 5 | 17–26–3 | .611 |
1926–1942 | Babe Hollingbery | 15 | 93–53–14 | .348 |
1919–1922 | Gus Welch | 4 | 16–10–1 | .625 |
1915–1917 | William Dietz | 3 | 17–2–1 | - |
1910–1911 | Oscar Osthoff | 2 | 5–6 | .402 |
1909 | Willis Kienholz | 1 | 4–1 | .632 |
1908 | Walter Rheinschild | 1 | 4–0–2 | .350 |
1906–1907, 1912–1914 | John Bender | 5 | 21–12 | .488 |
1904–1905 | Everett Sweeley | 2 | 6–6 | .388 |
1903 | James Ashmore | 1 | 3–3–2 | .308 |
1901 | William Namack | 1 | 4–1 | .273 |
1898–99 | Frank Shively | 2 | 1–1–1 | .545 |
1897 | Robert Gailey | 1 | 2–0 | .460 |
1896 | David Brodie | 1 | 2–0–1 | .543 |
1895 | Fred Waite | 1 | 2–0 | .516 |
1894 | William Goodyear | 1 | 1–1 | .508 |
Seasons | Coach | Years | Record | .184 |
2021–Present | Jake Dickert | 3 | 19–16 | .539 |
2020–2021 | Nick Rolovich | 2 | 5–6 | .455 |
2012–2019 | Mike Leach | 8 | 55–47 | .543 |
Washington State Cougars Football Stadium: Martin Stadium
Martin Stadium, located on the campus of Washington State University in Pullman, Washington, serves as the iconic home field for the Washington State Cougars football team. This place is a proud member of the Pac-12 Conference. Originally constructed in 1972, the stadium has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years to enhance the game-day experience for fans and players alike.
Named Gesa Field at Martin Stadium as part of a sponsorship agreement with Gesa Credit Union in 2021, the stadium boasts a rich history and a vibrant game-day atmosphere. It has been equipped with artificial turf since its inception, with infilled FieldTurf implemented since 2000.
Washington State Cougars Football Rivals
Washington (Apple Cup)
The rivalry between Washington State and Washington, known as the Apple Cup, dates back over a century to their first meeting in 1900. The series, currently standing at 74–33–6 in favor of Washington, is one of college football's oldest and most storied rivalries.
Historically, the teams competed for the Governor's Trophy until 1961, when the Apple Cup was renamed to honor Washington's apple industry. Since 2011, the game has been traditionally played on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Despite the Huskies' historical advantage, the Cougars continue to strive for victory, with the most recent game in 2022 ending in Washington's favor.
Oregon State
Though more long-standing than the Apple Cup, the rivalry between Washington State and Oregon State holds significant importance in Pac-12 football. The series began in 1895, and the Cougars currently lead with a record of 57-48. The most a recent encounter in 2023 that saw Washington State emerge victorious with a score of 38–35. As both schools plan to schedule games with the Mountain West conference in the coming years.
Idaho (Battle of the Palouse)
The Battle of the Palouse between Washington State and Idaho is a historic rivalry fueled by the close proximity of the two universities. Dating back to their first meeting in 1894, the series has seen Washington State dominate with a commanding 73–14 lead.
Despite periods of intermittent play, the rivalry remains significant for both institutions. Though Idaho currently competes in lower-level FCS play, the teams continue to schedule games.
Utah
The rivalry between Washington State and Utah may not be as deeply rooted as others, but it has become increasingly competitive since their first matchup in 1977. With Utah leading the series 11-9, each game brings intensity as both teams vie for supremacy on the field.
Northwest Championship
In addition to individual rivalries, Washington State has also competed for the Northwest Championship by facing off against regional rivals Washington, Oregon State, and Oregon. The Cougars claimed the championship in 1983 by sweeping these opponents.
Washington State Cougars Football Record and Stats
The Washington State Cougars football program boasts a proud history marked by notable achievements and standout performances. While the NCAA does not officially recognize the team's national championships, Washington State holds the distinction of winning the Rose Bowl in 1916.
The 1915 WSC team, led by coach William "Lone Star" Dietz, delivered an unbeaten and untied season, conceding only 10 points. Their impressive campaign culminated in a decisive 14–0 victory over Brown University in the Tournament East-West football game, now known as the Rose Bowl. This triumph remains Washington State's sole Rose Bowl or New Year's Six Bowl victory, a cherished moment in the program's history.
While the contemporary system for determining national champions was absent in the early years of college football, the 1915 WSC team has been celebrated by various major selectors. Referee Walter Eckersall lauded the team as the equal of Cornell, while the Associated Press referred to them as "mythical national champions" during a 20th-anniversary celebration in 1935. In 2014, the Washington State Senate passed Resolution 8715, officially recognizing the team as national champions on the season's 99th anniversary, with head coach Mike Leach in attendance.
Rose Bowl champions
Year | Coach | Selector | Record | Bowl | Opponent | Result |
1915 | William "Lone Star" Dietz | Washington State Senate | 7–0 | Rose Bowl | Brown | W 14–0 |
Conference championships
Season | Conference | Coach | Record | Overall |
1917 | Pacific Coast | William Dietz | 3–0 | 6–0–1 |
1930 | Pacific Coast | Babe Hollingbery | 6–1 | 9–1 |
1997 | Pacific-10 | Mike Price | 7–1 | 10–2 |
2002 | Pacific-10 | Mike Price | 7–1 | 10–3 |
Division championships
Season | Division | Coach | Opponent | CG result |
2018^ | Pac-12 North | Mike Leach | N/A – lost tiebreaker to Washington | - |
Washington State Cougars Football Roster
In 2024, the Washington State Cougars Football team showcased a diverse roster of talent across various positions.
Defensive Back
Stephen Hall
Jackson Lataimua
Kapena Gushiken
Tyson Durant
Adrian Wilson
Kenny Worthy III
Jaylon Edmond
Ethan Torres
King Williams
Warren Smith Jr.
Ethan O'Connor
Reece Sylvester
Jamorri Colson
Tanner Moku
Cole Norah
Kasen Kinchen
Aslan Fraser
Joe Taylor
Defensive Line
Ansel Din-Mbuh
Jack Procter
Rashad McKenzie
Khalil Laufau
David Gusta
Aden Mata
Bryson Lamb
Syrus Webster
Nusi Malani
Quinn Roff
Raam Stevenson
Isaac Terrell
Michael Hughes
Jack Janikowski
Andrew Edson
Kicker
Dean Janikowski
Linebacker
Tristan Bohannon
Taariq (Buddah) Al-Uqdah
Keith Brown
Frank Cusano
Hudson Cedarland
Tai Fa'avae
Parker McKenna
Kyle Thornton
Gavin Fugat
Long Snapper
Colson Brunner
Sean Bures
Durham Harris
Offensive Line
AJ Hasson
Gauge Machado
Rodrick Tialavea
Landon Roaten
Christian Hilborn
Luke Roaten
Brock Dieu
Jonny Lester
Kyle Martin
Devin Kylany
Ashton Tripp
Nathan Pritchard
Zack Miller
Noah Dunham
Esa Pole
Fa’alili Fa’amoe
Punter
Nick Haberer
Quarterback
Zevi Eckhaus
Jaxon Potter
Evans Chuba
John Mateer
Hunter Najm
Brady McKelheer
Running Back
Djouvensky Schlenbaker
Leo Pulalasi
Wayshawn Parker
Josh Joyner
Dylan Paine
Lane Heeringa
Jalen Ridgeway
Tight End
Trey Leckner
Cooper Mathers
Ben Dutton
Billy Riviere III
Mahki Whitney
Andre Dollar
Luke Leighton
Wide Receiver
Tony Freeman
Kris Hutson
Kyle Williams
Tre Shackelford
Carlos Hernandez
Kyle Maxwell
Leon Neal Jr.
Washington State Cougars Football Schedule
Here is the 2024 Washington State Cougars Football Schedule:
Date | Time | Opponent | Location | TV Network |
Apr 27 (Sat) | 3:00 PM | Crimson & Gray Game | Pullman, Wash. Gesa Field | Pac-12 Network |
Aug 31 (Sat) | 12:00 PM | Portland State | Pullman, Wash. Gesa Field | The CW Network |
Sep 7 (Sat) | TBD | Texas Tech | Pullman, Wash. Gesa Field | FOX or FS1 |
Sep 14 (Sat) | TBD | Washington | Seattle, Wash. Lumen Field | |
Sep 20 (Fri) | 7:00 PM | San José State | Pullman, Wash. Gesa Field | The CW Network |
Sep 28 (Sat) | TBD | Boise State | Boise, Idaho | |
Oct 12 (Sat) | TBD | Fresno State | Fresno, Calif. | |
Oct 19 (Sat) | 12:30 or 7:00 PM | Hawai'i | Pullman, Wash. Gesa Field | The CW Network |
Oct 26 (Sat) | TBD | San Diego State | San Diego, Calif. Snapdragon Stadium | |
Nov 9 (Sat) | 12:30 or 7:30 PM | Utah State | Pullman, Wash. Gesa Field | The CW Network |
Nov 16 (Sat) | TBD | New Mexico | Albuquerque, N.M. | |
Nov 23 (Sat) | 3:30 PM | Oregon State | Corvallis, Ore. Reser Stadium | The CW Network |
Nov 30 (Sat) | 3:30 PM | Wyoming | Pullman, Wash. Gesa Field | The CW Network |
FAQ's On Washington State Cougars Football
A. The Washington State Cougars football team competes in the Pac-12 Conference.
A. Jake Dickert currently serves as the head coach of the Washington State Cougars football team.
A. The home stadium for the Washington State Cougars football team is Martin Stadium.
A. The Washington State Cougars football team has won four conference titles.
A. The fight song for the Washington State Cougars is the Washington State University Fight Song.