In an intense Apple Cup rivalry, the Washington Huskies were denied victory in the final moments by the Washington State Cougars, thanks to a gutsy 4th-and-goal defensive stand from the 2-yard line. With just seconds left, the Huskies, trailing by a slim margin, decided to run a puzzling option play with Will Rogers, a quarterback not known for his rushing abilities. The gamble backfired, leaving the Huskies empty-handed as the Cougars secured the Apple Cup with a 20-17 win.
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The Call That Left Fans Stunned
With the game on the line and fans expecting a decisive play, the Huskies opted for a speed option—a call that immediately drew widespread criticism. Will Rogers, a non-running quarterback, was left scrambling as he made a desperate pitch to avoid a tackle, but the play was quickly snuffed out by the Cougars’ defense. The stop not only ended Washington’s scoring attempt but also extinguished any hope of an Apple Cup comeback.
Social media exploded as analysts, reporters, and fans alike expressed disbelief at the decision. Arielle Orsuto tweeted, “A non-running quarterback takes the option and then uses a desperation pitch to get himself out of trouble. Awful.” Similar sentiments were echoed by Mike Vorel, who pointed out that running an option with a quarterback who doesn’t run was a baffling call with the game on the line.
A Closer Look at the Game-Defining Moment
Leading up to the dramatic finish, both teams played a back-and-forth game, with momentum swings that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Huskies had driven down to the Wazzu 2-yard line, burning a timeout to set up what was supposed to be a game-winning play. But the decision to run the option to the short side of the field proved costly, as Cougars linebacker Coleman made a key tackle, leaving Washington State in control and sealing their victory.
BGustafson voiced his frustration over the timeout usage and play call, sarcastically remarking, “Yeah, kill a timeout to run speed option with Will Rogers to the short side. Great work, everyone!”
What’s Next for the Huskies?
This loss marks a frustrating chapter for Washington, as they head into next week’s matchup against Northwestern with a bitter taste in their mouths. The loss raises questions about the Huskies’ decision-making in critical moments and whether adjustments will be made before they face the Wildcats.
As fans look ahead, this loss in the Apple Cup will undoubtedly be scrutinized, especially the final play call, which left many wondering what could have been if the Huskies had made a different choice.
Conclusion: A Bitter Defeat in a Storied Rivalry
The Apple Cup lived up to its billing, with both teams fighting until the last second. But it was the Cougars who stood tall, stopping the Huskies cold on a crucial 4th-and-goal to secure a memorable victory. The Huskies’ controversial decision to run an option with a non-mobile quarterback will be debated for weeks to come, but for Washington State, this win is one to savor.
As the Huskies regroup for their next game against Northwestern, they’ll have to address the critical errors that cost them the Apple Cup in order to get back on track.