Bishop Sankey and Washington Huskies Win 2013 Apple Cup
By Todd Pheifer
Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
The Washington Huskies outlasted the Washington State Cougars to win the 2013 Apple Cup by a score of 27-17. Bragging rights have officially been returned to Seattle. Washington started slow, as they only managed three points in the first half. In the second half, the Huskies got hot and they were able to ride the running game to victory.
Team MVP? Gotta be Bishop Sankey.
The talented running back ran for an eye-popping 200 yards on 34 carries. Sankey had an amazing 5.9 yards per carry and he also ran for a touchdown.
In addition to Sankey’s dominating performance, it was fitting that fifth-year senior Keith Price was able to essentially walk into the end zone for the 27-17 lead late in the fourth quarter. There were a few moments in the game when it seemed like Price was taking far too many hits and might need to be replaced by Cyler Miles.
Washington did give up a lot of yards through the air, as WSU quarterback Connor Halliday was 32-for-59 for 282 yards. However, Washington got two key interceptions in the fourth quarter to stifle Wazzu comebacks.
The Huskies finish the regular season at 8-4, and at last projection may head to the Fight Hunger Bowl in December 27. Should this be considered a successful season?
Certainly an 8-4 record is a positive step, and any bowl appearance is going to reflect well on the program. That said, this is a season where fans have to feel like Washington could have been just a little bit better.
The game against the Stanford Cardinal is going to be remembered because it ended with an incorrect call and a loss of momentum. If Washington wins that game, it could have changed the outcome of the game against the Oregon Ducks the following week. Despite the 8-4 finish, it was still a season where there were missed opportunities.
For now, the Huskies can celebrate the strong finish, the Apple Cup victory and a chance to win another bowl game. Keith Price has had a great career with the Huskies and it would be fantastic for him to end his career with a victory.
Go Dawgs.