Washington State Cougars 1-5 Overall (0-4 Conference)

This Week’s Score: Arizona State 27 – Washington State 14

Next Week’s Opponent: BYE

If you’d have told me before the game started that the Cougars would force six turnovers and complete their longest play from scrimmage of all time with a 99-yard touchdown pass, I’d have assumed it was a pretty special day in Pullman.

But it wasn’t. Take away that one big play, and the Cougars mustered up only 82 yards of total offense, thanks in large part to an incredible negative 54 yards rushing including 12 sacks.

It’s easy to take away positives from this game. Jeff Tuel connecting with Johnny Forzani (who had slipped behind everyone and showed off his speed) from the one-yard line was an exciting moment; Louis Bland, Xavier Hicks Jr., and Andy Mattingly all snagging picks was great as well. But the silver-lining doesn’t really lessen the blow of how hopeless the offense looked all game, and yet another loss in the record books.

It’s just a miserable situation in Washington State; there’s really no way to put a positive spin on it. The season looked bleak enough to begin with, and losing Jeshua Anderson and James Montgomery has made it even worse. If not for the improbable comeback against SMU, the Cougars would be in grave danger of suffering a winless season; but is a one-win season with an 0-9 conference record a whole lot better?

All eyes are on Paul Wulff now. Patience was obviously the plan, but it’s easier said than done; especially with the success Coach Sarkisian is having in Washington. Does he keep his job after the season ends?

In a season of heartache and pain, any bit of silver lining helps. Here’s a bit for Cougs fans; you won’t lose this Saturday. Sure, you aren’t playing… but at least it’s not a loss.