The Apple Cup may be different, but here's why it still matters for Cougars and Huskies | Dave Boling
Sep. 5—SEATTLE — I've heard so much bellyaching about the irrelevance of Sunday's game, this Washington State-Washington duel should be branded: The Crab-Apple Cup. For instance, a comment heard from a sports fan/friend not affiliated with either institution engaged in this achingly non-traditional Apple Cup football clash at Husky Stadium on Sunday afternoon: "Seems kind of meaningless, ...
On September 5, sports fans couldn't help but notice the lack of significance surrounding Sunday's Washington State vs. Washington football game. One unnamed fan expressed this sentiment at Husky Stadium, saying, "Seems kind of meaningless, doesn't it?" However, Dave Boling argues that this game is far from meaningless, as it remains one of the few meaningful events left in contemporary college sports beyond financial gains and historical rivalries.
The pre-Labor Day nonconference matchup holds meaning, particularly for Washington State, as it marks the debut of a new coaching staff amid a reshaped conference landscape. The Cougars' success in the Apple Cup could be a significant springboard for their first fall in the new Pac-12. Meanwhile, the Huskies have more to lose, as a home defeat would push them out of the polls and behind several Big Ten rivals.
Despite the transient nature of the players involved and the one-sided salary structure, Moore, WSU's head coach, brings a deep understanding of the rivalry's historical significance. His familiarity with the rivalry's importance is evident, as he served as a graduate assistant to Chris Petersen during UW's two Apple Cup victories in the Mike Leach era.
Moore's own track record in the Apple Cup is solid, with three wins in 14 games during his tenure. His connection to Pullman and the team's history gives him a vested interest in the game's outcome. The Apple Cup has a history of producing memorable moments, and this year's matchup is no exception. Moore's offensive coordinator at Missouri, Jimmy Rogers, led WSU to an upset victory with a dramatic goal-line stand in 2018, and WSU's Kyle Thornton, a six-year veteran, played a crucial role in that win by making a textbook tackle for a loss.
These are the moments that make the Apple Cup game special, regardless of the current circumstances.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
