Washington State football: How the Cougars matchup against each UW unit
By Ed Stein
vs. Washington offensive line
It’s a good group. They can make holes for Myles Gaskin as well as protect quarterback Jake Browning. Center Nick Harris has been the anchor all year. There was a huge drop off during the early season games he missed. All-American tackle Trey Adams recently returned from back surgery and makes the O-line even better. The WSU front four has their work cut out for them this week.
vs Washington receivers
The loss of Quinton Pounds has hurt the UW offense. That doesn’t mean they are devoid of talent. Washington State has had problems all year against big athletic receivers and UW still has a few. Ty Jones and Aaron Fuller will make things difficult for the Cougs corners. Additionally, Washington’s tight ends are good pass catchers.
vs. Washington running backs
About the only thing that can hold Myles Gaskin back is coach Chris Petersen keeping him out of the game. He’s a special back who will be plying his trade on Sundays next year. That said, Wazzu has seen their share of good running backs this season and have for the most part shut them down.
This aspect of the game will make or break UW’s offense. Gaskin can count on seeing Cougars linebacker Peyton Pelluer in his face all day.
vs. Washington quarterback
It’s been a disappointing 2018 for Browning. This season was supposed to be his crowning achievement. One that would make him a Heisman candidate and early round draft pick. His senior season has been anything but the one he had pictured before it began. With the way he’s played, this is exactly who WSU wants to face in a game of this magnitude.
Playing against the Washington offense
The lynchpin is Gaskin. When he’s been out or struggled, the entire Washington offense has struggled. If the Cougars can keep Gaskin in check, Browning will have to beat them. The quarterback hasn’t been able to carry the team at all this year, and its been even harder without Pounds. Outside of that, they need to hold containment on the outside edges.