The storied rivalry between the Washington Huskies and Washington State Cougars is set to reignite on Sunday, September 6, at Husky Stadium. This year's Apple Cup marks the first time the teams have faced off at Montlake since their thrilling encounter in 2023, where the No. 4-ranked Huskies clinched a 24-21 victory with a dramatic 42-yard field goal, capping off an undefeated 12-0 regular season.
This victory was pivotal for the Huskies, propelling them into the Pac-12 Championship game and eventually leading them to the national championship. In stark contrast, Washington State concluded the 2023 season with a disappointing 5-7 record. Despite the upheaval caused by conference realignment that has threatened many traditional rivalries, both programs have committed to continuing the Apple Cup through 2028, even as Washington transitions to the Big Ten.
Fast forward to the present, and the landscape for both teams has dramatically shifted since that memorable game on Montlake. The Huskies, fresh off their national championship run, experienced significant turnover, losing 21 of their 22 starters, including head coach Kalen DeBoer. Under the guidance of former Arizona head coach Jedd Fisch, who took the reins in 2024, Washington has navigated the challenges of the Big Ten, posting a 9-9 record in conference play.
Meanwhile, Washington State has also faced its share of challenges, introducing its third head coach in as many years. Following a tumultuous period marked by uncertainty due to the dissolution of the Pac-12, the Cougars managed to secure back-to-back winning seasons in 2024 and 2025. After the departure of former head coach Jimmy Rogers to Iowa State, the Cougars hired Kirby Moore, previously the offensive coordinator at Missouri.
Moore, who has a solid background in coaching, spent three seasons with the Tigers, mentoring notable quarterbacks like Brady Cook and Beau Pribula. He also brings a wealth of experience from his playing days at Boise State, where he played alongside his brother Kellen Moore, the current head coach of the New Orleans Saints, and under former UW head coach Chris Petersen.
As both teams gear up for their season opener, the stakes are high. Washington State, under the leadership of their new offensive-minded coach, is eager to make a statement against their ranked in-state rival. On the other hand, the Huskies, led by junior quarterback Demond Williams Jr. and a highly anticipated defensive lineup, are determined to start their season on a strong note and retain the Apple Cup trophy.
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