CougCenter - WSU vs. Utah: Utes destroy Cougs 49-6 behind John White's big dayWhy Washington State? Well that's a stupid question.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47853/fave.png2012-11-06T18:42:00-08:00http://www.cougcenter.com/rss/stream/33412652012-11-06T18:42:00-08:002012-11-06T18:42:00-08:00Examining the woes of the offensive line
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<figcaption>Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>Jeff Tuel has suffered a lot of criticism for holding the ball too long. We throw the Stanford game - the nadir of pass protection - under the microscope. How much time did he have before the Cardinal defense got in the backfield? We'll break down each sack, examining what happened up front, and draw some conclusions for what it means going forward.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i>Editor's note: A version of this story first appeared on Saturday, but sort of got lost in the shuffle. It's been updated to reflect the happenings of Saturday's loss to Utah.</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Washington State went into The Farm two weeks ago and nearly upset the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/stanford-cardinal" class="sbn-auto-link">Stanford Cardinal</a>. While coach Mike Leach and the rest of the Cougs don’t allow moral victories, fans were certainly pleased to witness quarterback <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78188/jeff-tuel" class="sbn-auto-link">Jeff Tuel</a> and the offense move the ball, racking up 401 yards through the air. It’s really too bad the Cougs also racked up 10 sacks, including one on Stanford’s doorstep to end the game</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Following the BYU game, the popular refrain was "Tuel holds the ball and gets sacked," and it wasn’t wrong. Tuel was initially hesitant in the offense. The tune has changed to "the offensive line is terrible." They were even last week’s <a href="http://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/10/31/3574854/wsu-vs-utah-key-matchup-offensive-line" target="_blank">most important 'person'</a> before the colossal meltdown that resulted in Mike Leach making all sorts of unflattering comments about the line. The following will break down each sack by the Cardinal, including the time Tuel had before being reached by pressure, so that we can get a clearer picture of just why the blame has shifted to the offensive line.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>[Note: Tuel got absolutely blasted on a couple plays that weren't sacks, where he stood tall in the pocket and threw into the face of a blitz. His toughness last Saturday cannot be overstated.]</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As each of these 10 plays unfolds, here's what you'll see: There were mistakes by the Cougs in picking up zone blocking assignments, but for the most part it was the Stanford front simply beating them. Overpowering them off the ball, beating them to the edge, using leverage from a stunt. The Cougs up front started to win those individual battles in the 3rd quarter, but couldn't maintain to finish the game.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Stanford has one of the best defensive fronts -- if not the best defensive front -- in the nation. Former Cardinal Coy Wire was a commentator for the game, and at one point early on mentioned Stanford head coach David Shaw wanted to utilize some punt blocking stunts against the wide splits of the WSU line: twists where a backer goes around multiple teammates and shoots the A gap (between the center and guard) would qualify. Most teams are not anywhere near fast enough to consistently pull this off, but Stanford was. That is a huge credit to them. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Unfortunately, it didn't get a whole lot easier for the Cougar linemen on Saturday after making their way to Salt Lake City to take on <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114734/star-lotulelei" class="sbn-auto-link">Star Lotulelei</a> and the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/utah-utes" class="sbn-auto-link">Utah Utes</a>. Lotulelei will won his fair share of battles, and while the blitz and stunt packages weren't as exotic as what the Cougs faced against Stanford, there still were plenty of them. And it's becoming more clear than ever that these confusing pass rushing packages are what give the offense the most trouble in terms of protection.</p>
<p>One aspect of the protection that's come under critique is the wide splits employed by Mike Leach. Cougs have watched a single-back spread offense under Mike Price get the protection it needed, and now <i>this </i>single-back spread offense is not protecting the quarterback. Well, the line splits have changed, so it must be that, right? Change them back and it'll fix the problem! This is not the best approach, and there are probably a few of reasons you haven't seen the coaching staff adopt narrow splits.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">First, the protection problems we can see are not directly attributed to splits, and are more a cause of poor technique and mismatched ability. Looking at the sacks from Stanford, many times the defender took advantage of a deep drop by the offensive tackle or guard and cut inside to get to the quarterback. This is a technique issue. Second, the wide splits function in other aspects of the offense, not just pass blocking. Defenders have to spread out their front with the O-Line spacing, creating essential throwing lanes for the quarterback on short underneath routes. The splits establish the space wide receivers will use on their routes. And, third, these problems can be mitigated within Coach Leach's system. Against Utah we saw more designed and impromptu roll-outs and 20 personnel (two runningbacks) - these changes are done to specifically help with the pass protection.</p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><b>SACK 1</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Q1 13:32, Drive 1 play 4<br><i>1<sup>st</sup> and 10, WSU 42<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 1.9 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>; 3.8 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 11 personnel, Slot left (wing T look)<br><b>Defensive front</b>; 4-3, corner (left, top) blitz at snap to outside</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Play</b>; This is pass rush is able to be handled by man on man blocking. The blitz outside is picked up, but the right offensive tackle #55 Wade Jacobsen is beaten by a swim move. Jacobsen bites on the fake inside then is not fast enough to recover and the defensive tackle gets past him, gaining a free path to quarterback Jeff Tuel.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676477/BA-Stan-Q1-1332-GIF.gif" class="photo" alt="Ba-stan-q1-1332-gif"><br id="1351961523670"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>SACK 2</b></p>
<p>Q1 12:16, Drive 1 play 6<br><i>3<sup>rd</sup> and 15, WSU 37<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 2.1 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>;3.0 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 10 personnel, Ace<br><b>Defensive front</b>; 2 down lineman outside shade of tackles. Stand up ends. Middle linebacker shows blitz</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; The two defensive tackles (DTs) both line up on the outside shade of the offensive guards (OGs) and drive upfield between the OGs and offensive tackles (OTs). The backer on the left end drops into pass coverage, double teaming <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/161388/brett-bartolone" class="sbn-auto-link">Brett Bartolone</a>’s shallow cross with the corner. The stand up backer on the right stunts. A "stunt" refers to when the players on the defensive front don’t just rush straight up field. This stunt is called a twist.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">The right DT and the middle linebacker both rush, pushing the center, guard and OT to the outside. The left defensive tackle pushes hard up field between the right OG and OT, driving them both to the outside, leaving an open hole directly in the center. The backer on the right flies behind his teammates pass rush and through the hole. He does not get the sack, instead he gets leveled by running back <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78195/carl-winston" class="sbn-auto-link">Carl Winston</a>. Unfortunately, the middle backer that ripped the A gap, beat the center and got to Tuel. Gaps, or the spaces between offensive lineman, are given letter designations. Between the center and the guard is the A gap, the guard and tackle is B, the tackle and end is C and outside the end is D. The naming convention is the same for both the right and left side of the ball.</p>
<p><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676485/BA-Stan-Q1-1216-snap-to-sack.gif" class="photo" alt="Ba-stan-q1-1216-snap-to-sack"><br id="1351961726422"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">This play puts stress on the OGs. Watch both during the GIF. Left offensive guard #77 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114038/john-fullington" class="sbn-auto-link">John Fullington</a> managed to block no one. He drops thinking to help the OT to his left, then sees the stunt and tries to follow it, all while his center is getting beat by the middle linebacker. Right offensive guard #69 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114036/jake-rodgers" class="sbn-auto-link">Jake Rodgers</a> does help his OT with the DT rush, then tries to leave and pick up the stunt but is just a little too slow.</p>
<p><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676497/BA-Stan-Q1-1216-replay-GIF.gif" class="photo" alt="Ba-stan-q1-1216-replay-gif"><br id="1351961751561"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">The most noticeable things from this behind shot are the size of the hole opened up in front of Tuel, and how impressively Carl Winston shuts down any thoughts that backer had of getting to the quarterback after running through it.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p>
<h5><b>SACK 3</b></h5>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">Q1 06:44, Drive 2 play 4<br><i>1<sup>st</sup> and 10, WSU 42<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 2.2 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>; 3.7 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 20 personnel, doubles right<br><b>Defensive front</b>; 3-4, outside backers on either side at line of scrimmage (LOS) rush up field</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; The two stand up backers at the line rush the passer, until both running backs swing, then they turn to cover them out into the flat. The nose tackle bull rushes the center, driving him straight back as hard as he can. To his right, the DT is just to the inside shade of the left OT, but shoots the A gap between the guard Fullington and center Elliot Bosch. Fullington is beat to the inside and the DT gets to Tuel.</p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b> </b></p>
<h5><b>SACK 4</b></h5>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">Q1 01:54, Drive 3 play 5<br><i>2<sup>nd</sup> and 2, WSU 48<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 2.3 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>; 3.0 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 10 personnel, Ace<br><b>Defensive front</b>; 3-4, with all backers walked up to the LOS showing blitz</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; All 4 backers at the line drop into zone coverage and only the 3 down lineman rush. The center handles the NT and the two OT are responsible for the DTs.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676213/BA_Stan_Q1_154_Break.jpg" class="photo" alt="Ba_stan_q1_154_break" height="247" width="436"><br id="1351962021971"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">This could’ve been a misunderstanding between right OT Jacobsen and right OG Rodgers. Rodgers initially looks to help out Jacobsen after the backer drops, then leaves to help center Bosch who was doing pretty well with his man. The DT tackle shucks Jacobsen and cuts inside, where Rodgers would’ve been. Winston also fills to the outside of Jacobsen, most likely thinking the blitz was coming and was out of position to fill when the DT broke through.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p>
<h5><b>SACK 5</b></h5>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">Q1 01:10, Drive 3 play 6<br><i>3<sup>rd</sup> and 7, WSU 43<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 2.4 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>; 3.2 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 10 personnel, trips right<br><b>Defensive front</b>; 3 down lineman, two stand up backers to the outside of left DE</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; This is another twist by Stanford. The NT drives the A gap, occupying the center and right OG. The left DT rushes the B gap, taking on the OG and OT. The left OT eventually picks him up and the OG tries to fill the open A gap that is being rushed by the twisting backer, but can't get there in time.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676237/BA_Stan_Q1_110_Drop.jpg" class="photo" alt="Ba_stan_q1_110_drop" height="237" width="419"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">"Shade" refers to the position of the defensive lineman with regards to the offensive lineman across the LOS and is typically considered inside (toward the center), outside (away from the center) or head up. There can be number associations with these positions, but we don't yet know how WSU identifies them. In the NFL, a trendy pass rush has been the "Wide-9", meaning the DE lines up outside shade of the tight end, crouches like an Olympic sprinter and gets a wide pass rush.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">WSU doesn’t use tight ends, so Stanford modified that tactic to speed rush the offensive tackle. No. 42 lines up severely outside of the left OT and gets an outside speed rush the OT isn’t fast enough to cover. It’s important to note the outside speed rush comes on the quarterback’s blind side and on the opposite side of the running back protection, this is an ideal situation for it. The twist on the other side also works, but No. 42 was faster on his speed rush and gets there first. Tuel looks to get rid of the ball, but all the routes were well covered at that time.</p>
<p><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676245/BA_Stan_Q1_110_Pump.jpg" class="photo" alt="Ba_stan_q1_110_pump" height="243" width="425"><br id="1351962336384"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>SACK 6</b></p>
<p>Q2 10:45, Drive 4 play 6<br><i>1<sup>st</sup> and 10, WSU 42<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 4.5 seconds <br><b>Time until sack</b>; 6.8 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 10 personnel, Ace<br><b>Defensive front</b>; two down lineman, NT and left DT in B gap. 3 backers up at line showing blitz</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; The end man on the right of the defensive line rushes to the outside of the left OT. The NT rushes the A gap, driving the center and the left OG. The backer walks up to the line on the right and blitzes the unguarded B gap only to be up-ended by <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/136503/marcus-mason" class="sbn-auto-link">Marcus Mason</a>, who continued to block him after he got up.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676269/BA_Stan_Q2_1050_blitz.jpg" class="photo" alt="Ba_stan_q2_1050_blitz" height="239" width="422"><br id="1351962670166"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">Tuel rolls to his right, feeling the outside pressure to his left and continues to scan down field. This is a good distinction to make; right-handed quarterbacks <u>see</u> pressure from the right and <u>feel</u> pressure from the left. Not only is there an internal clock that senses how much time has passed, quarterbacks need to have a good feel for how the pocket is developing on the blind side. This is accomplished using a pre-snap read, peripheral vision and most importantly experience.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676285/BA_Stan_Q2_1050_scramble.jpg" class="photo" alt="Ba_stan_q2_1050_scramble" height="232" width="410"><br id="1351962715537"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">The wide receiver routes are not in frame, but we have to assume this is a coverage "sack". Tuel tucked it after a quick survey of the field and took off. I’m a little hesitant to credit the Stanford defense with a sack on this play, as Tuel seemingly got back to the line of scrimmage.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p>
<h5><b>SACK 7</b></h5>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">Q2 05:05, Drive 5 play 7<br><i>1<sup>st</sup> and 10, Stan 41<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 2.5 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>; 3.4 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 10 personnel, trips right<br><b>Defensive front</b>; NT and left DT, two stand up defensive ends</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; The left DT works toward the outside of right OT Jacobsen and takes him deep into his drop, then cuts inside. Left OT <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/136518/gunnar-eklund" class="sbn-auto-link">Gunnar Eklund</a> tries to cut block the outside pass rusher. The Cardinal is able to get up quickly and gets the sack after pressure from the left DE forces Tuel to step up, right into him.</p>
<p><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676355/BA_Stan_Q2_505_DT_Arms.jpg" class="photo" alt="Ba_stan_q2_505_dt_arms" height="244" width="431"><br id="1351962839125"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b> </b></p>
<h5><b>SACK 8</b></h5>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">Q4 02:41, Drive 11 play 4<br><i>1<sup>st</sup> and 10, WSU 35<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 2.3 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>; 5.5 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 10 personnel, Ace<br><b>Defensive front</b>; DE – NT – DE, linebacker at LOS</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; The linebacker stays at the line of scrimmage, drifting to his right as the play develops. The left defensive end tries a swim move to the outside, the right defensive end tries a spin move. It is the NT that does the most damage, his bull rush drives both the center and OG way back and into Tuel’s drop. Tuel tries to step up in the pocket, then scrambles toward the line where he’s tackled by the linebacker. This was another questionable sack.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">The receivers were working screen to the left that was decently set up. Tuel looked that direction, but didn’t like something about it and took off.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676429/BA_Stan_Q4_241_scramble.jpg" class="photo" alt="Ba_stan_q4_241_scramble" height="232" width="410"><br id="1351963026830"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p>
<h5><b>SACK 9</b></h5>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">Q4 01:30, Drive11 play 8<br><i>2<sup>nd</sup> and 16, Stan 29<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 2.3 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>; 3.8 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 10 personnel, trips left (tight)<br><b>Defensive front</b>; DT – DT (B gaps), 2 stand up linebackers, one outside right and one in A gap</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; Another twist by Stanford. The DTs both drive to the outside of the OTs, opening up the interior line. The backer in the A gap gets a good rip to the inside and is screened by the right OG. The backer on the outside right goes around his two teammates and shoots the open A gap on the opposite side of the ball</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">The wide receivers are running a complicated mesh out of trips that is just starting to develop when the pressure gets to Tuel. The backer shooting the A gap forces Tuel to step up, right into the other backer. Despite all the crossing, Stanford manages to guard this route combination in man with one linebacker, Shane Skov, sitting in an underneath zone in the middle.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676509/BA-Stan-Q4-130-Gif.gif" class="photo" alt="Ba-stan-q4-130-gif"><br id="1351963097619"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p>
<h5><b>SACK 10</b></h5>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt">Q4 00:11, Drive 11 play 11<br><i>2<sup>nd</sup> and Goal, Stan 19<br></i><b>Time before pressure</b>; 2.9 seconds<br><b>Time until sack</b>; 4.0 seconds<br><b>Formation</b>; 10 personnel, Ace<br><b>Defensive front</b>; DE – DT – DT – DE</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt"><b>Play</b>; Stanford runs a more convential twist up front to end the game. The left DT rushes to the outside of the right OT and the left DE rips inside. Both are blocked well initially. Bosch at center and the left OG hold up the right DT, who tries to go outside after the stalemate. The outside man on the right tries a hard rush right at the left OT. The left DT eventually gets around right OT Jacobsen and following the sack, the chance of a Cougar upset runs out with the clock.</p>
<p><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1676469/BA_Stan_Q4_0011_scramble.jpg" class="photo" alt="Ba_stan_q4_0011_scramble" height="234" width="413"><br id="1351963166758"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt">Tuel looked like he wanted to get rid of the ball, and has since said there was a mix-up with wide receiver <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114044/marquess-wilson" class="sbn-auto-link">Marquess Wilson</a>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p>
<h5></h5>
https://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3593512/wsu-vs-stanford-10-sacks-Jeff-Tuel-offensive-lineBrian Anderson2012-11-04T06:01:15-08:002012-11-04T06:01:15-08:00Hot Cougar Action: The day after Utah
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<figcaption>Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>News, recaps and analysis following WSU's loss to Utah.</p> <p>Yikes.</p>
<p>At this point, that is about the only word I can think of to describe Saturday that is appropriate to print. Not just the 49-6 blowout loss, but the entire day. The state of the fanbase, the continued on-field struggles, the post game press conference charade. It's all just so, so bad.</p>
<p>Let's start with the releases from WSU which include <a target="_blank" href="http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/wast/sports/m-footbl/auto_pdf/2012-13/box_score/stats_20121103aaa.pdf">stats</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/wast/sports/m-footbl/auto_pdf/2012-13/postgame_notes/postgame_notes_20121103aaa.pdf">notes</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/wast/sports/m-footbl/auto_pdf/2012-13/postgame_quotes/postgame_quotes_20121103aaa.pdf">quotes</a>. The athletic department also posted three postgame press conference videos which can be found below. They include Mike Leach and both the offensive and defensive lines. The two groups were sent to answer questions from the media after displaying poor effort against Utah.</p>
<p>Personally, I wasn't a big fan of that move when heard it was happening and liked it even less after seeing <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78222/travis-long" class="sbn-auto-link">Travis Long's</a> reaction. For a coaching staff which keeps everything, including injuries, so close to the vest, it felt odd to try to punish those units in such a public manner. Maybe I feel that way just because I feel terrible for Travis Long. Long has started every game in his career, has always played hard and all he has to show for it is a 9-36 career record. </p>
<p>Travis Long should get a sixth year of eligibility on a hardship waiver for being forced to play on such terrible teams.</p>
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<p>WSU Football: Mike Leach after Utah game. Nov. 3 (via <a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=HS-NLgSSaQM">WSUCougarAthletics</a>)</p>
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<p>WSU Football: Defensive Line Postgame Nov. 3 (via <a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=azaXXhZpNyk">WSUCougarAthletics</a>)</p>
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<p>WSU Football: Offensive Line Postgame Nov. 3 (via <a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=itPjqF4elTc">WSUCougarAthletics</a>)</p>
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<p><b>Football</b></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/sportslink/2012/nov/03/tale-tape-utah-49-wsu-6/" target="_blank">Tale of the tape: Utah 49, WSU 6 - SportsLink - Spokesman.com - Nov. 3, 2012</a><br>We've all been there. You're sitting in a class of, say, 15 or 20 people, one of those face-to-face settings where the teacher knows everyone's name. They're asking about last night's reading assignment, or something just discussed in class.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/nov/04/christian-caples-keys-to-the-game/" target="_blank">Christian Caple’s Keys to the Game - Spokesman.com - Nov. 4, 2012</a><br>What went right Virtually nothing. The Cougars didn’t throw the ball well, didn’t run it at all, couldn’t defend the run, allowed a freshman quarterback, Travis Wilson, to throw at will and also allowed a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. WSU was out of the game early and never gave any indication it could come back.</p>
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<p><a href="http://seattletimes.com/html/cougars/2019600693_cougarnotes04.html" target="_blank">WSU 'tired of losing,' but coach questions effort | Cougars | The Seattle Times</a><br>The question was inescapable in the aftermath of Washington State's unsightly 49-6 loss to Utah here Saturday: Is there a complete buy-in among the Cougars of first-year coach Mike Leach's regime?</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/2012/nov/03/wsu-notebook-leach-keeps-harping-on-lack-of-grit/" target="_blank">WSU Notebook: Leach keeps harping on lack of grit by Cougs » Kitsap Sun</a><br>Mike Leach says he wasn't good enough to play big-time college football, so he can't stand watching players waste the chance to play at a Pac-12 Conference school like Washington State.</p>
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<p><a href="http://seattletimes.com/html/cougars/2019600430_cougardrill04.html" target="_blank">WSU football 2-minute drill | Cougars | The Seattle Times</a><br>Utah turned in six sacks, two by end Trevor Reilly, making it 16 allowed in two weeks by the Cougars, and 40 for the season.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/utes/55204454-89/utes-utah-game-state.html.csp" target="_blank">Utah football: Utes crush Washington State, 49-6 | The Salt Lake Tribune</a><br>Kyle Whittingham came up with a rock-solid game plan in his 100th game as Utah’s coach: give the ball to John White.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/nov/04/cougars-coach-leach-comes-unglued-after-thumping/" target="_blank">Cougars coach Leach comes unglued after thumping - Spokesman.com - Nov. 4, 2012</a><br>By the time Mike Leach had finally finished ripping his team’s effort, he continued by ripping their effort.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/nov/04/leach-from-corpses-to-zombies/" target="_blank">Leach: From corpses to zombies - Spokesman.com - Nov. 4, 2012</a><br>The man has never been known to mince words. But coach Mike Leach has never been as publicly upset with his Washington State team as he was after Saturday’s 49-6 loss at Utah.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/11/03/2355296/for-leach-whatever-ails-cougars.html" target="_blank">For Leach, whatever ails Cougars all about effort | WSU Cougars - The News Tribune</a><br>Mike Leach says he wasn’t good enough to play big-time college football, so he can’t stand watching players waste the chance to play at a Pacific-12 Conference school like Washington State.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/11/03/2355284/a-heartless-effort.html" target="_blank">A ‘heartless’ effort | WSU Cougars - The News Tribune</a><br>First, the Utah Utes punished Washington State on the football field. Then, Washington State coach Mike Leach punished the Cougars off the field.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/11/03/2355298/results-aside-wsu-players-still.html" target="_blank">Results aside, WSU players still trying | WSU Cougars - The News Tribune</a><br>Coach Mike Leach called his Washington State football team’s effort – or lack thereof – “pitiful” in Saturday’s 49-6 loss to the Utah Utes.</p>
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<p><a href="http://seattletimes.com/html/localnews/2019600238_apfbcwashingtonstateutah2ndldwritethru.html" target="_blank">White, Dunn power Utah over Washington State 49-6 | Local News | The Seattle Times</a><br>Utah senior Reggie Dunn recently had a lightning-bolt Mohawk shaved into his head as a rally cap of sorts.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogsutahsports/55204620-59/utes-utah-cougars-game.html.csp" target="_blank">Utes dominate WSU in all phases | U of U Sports | The Salt Lake Tribune</a><br>So much for picking the Utes in a close game. That the Utes beat the Washington State Cougars Saturday wasn't much of a surprise, that they were able to do so decisively with several key players injured was impressive.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865566005/Utah-Utes-Football-Utes-torch-Washington-State-49-6.html" target="_blank">Utah Utes Football: Utes torch Washington State 49-6 | Deseret News</a><br>The Utah Utes overwhelmed the Washington State Cougars by scoring six touchdowns en route to a 49-6 victory at Rice-Eccles Stadium.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/gametracker/recap/NCAAF_20121103_WASHST@UTAH/utah-49-washington-st-6" target="_blank">NCAA College Football Recap - Washington State Cougars at Utah Utes - Nov 03, 2012 - CBSSports.com</a><br>Reggie Dunn returned a kickoff 100 yards for the third time in two weeks and John White rushed for 101 yards and two touchdowns as Utah defeated Washington State 49-6 Saturday.</p>
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<p><b>WSU Atletics</b></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.wsucougars.com/sports/w-baskbl/recaps/110312aaa.html" target="_blank">Balanced Attack Gives Cougars 93-30 Exhibition Victory - The Washington State University Official Athletic Site</a><br>PULLMAN, Wash. - The Washington State University women's basketball team saw 13 players register points in its 93-30 exhibition victory over Western Oregon University at Beasley Coliseum Saturday.</p>
https://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/4/3597830/wsu-cougars-football-washington-state-mike-leachMark Sandritter2012-11-03T15:16:32-07:002012-11-03T15:16:32-07:00Cougs score last-second touchdown to lose 49-6
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<figcaption>Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>Tire fire.</p> <p>Washington State fans have been wanting it to happen all season, for the Cougar football team to put together a complete effort on both sides of the ball. They finally did it in losing 49-6 to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/utah-utes">Utah Utes</a> on Saturday.</p>
<p>This was an all-out effort for the whole team. From offensive failures to defensive struggles, this was indeed a 60-minute football game full of terrible. Even Utah's backups were scoring touchdowns.</p>
<p>We wondered if WSU could string together two straight good performances. They didn't. They absolutely didn't. We are idiots for wondering though. When will we stop being idiots? Probably never. Stupid football.</p>
<p>Mike Leach will now miss out on bowl season for the first time in his head coaching career. The Cougars will go without a bowl for the ninth consecutive season.</p>
<p>The Cougars looked like they may be able to be competitive today, as they moved quickly into Utah territory on their first drive. That series would stall, and Utah wouldn't look back. It was 21-0 in the first and 31-0 at halftime. This game was never close.</p>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78188/jeff-tuel">Jeff Tuel</a> started, then <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114012/connor-halliday">Connor Halliday</a> came in, then Tuel returned. So, pretty much the same as every other game.</p>
<p>I'm angry. Not that the Cougs faceplanted. I'm mostly angry about last week, when WSU took a top-25 team to the brink on the road. If they wouldn't have done that, I probably wouldn't have cared at all about this game. Stupid game against Stanford. If you are going to suck, WSU football, just suck consistently, please. Ranging between different levels of suck makes it hard on your fans.</p>
<p>WSU faces UCLA at home this next weekend. They will probably lose. It may be close, it may be another blowout. We just know they will lose. Consistency! Go Cougs?</p>
<p>Oh hey, they scored a touchdown! At least Leach has still never been shut out.</p>
https://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3596290/wsu-vs-utah-final-score-football-utes-tire-fireCraig Powers2012-11-03T13:43:05-07:002012-11-03T13:43:05-07:00Utes embarrassing WSU 31-0 behind White's big day
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<p>Coming off what might have been their best performance of the season, against then-No. 17 Stanford, the Washington State Cougars are laying an egg against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/utah-utes">Utah Utes</a> in Salt Lake City, trailing 31-0 at halftime.</p>
<p>We thought this game would probably tell us a lot about this team. The last two years, WSU was making progress and had a chance to show it was ready to win a big game: Against Arizona State in 2010 and Oregon State in 2011. Both times, the Cougars had perhaps their worst performance of the season.</p>
<p>History is repeating itself today.</p>
<p>Utah has a fairly terrible offense, yet is averaging 7.0 yards per play against the Cougs - well above its season average of 4.6 yards per play. John White, who's averaged less than four yards per carry this season, has 96 yards on 15 attempts. Basically, the Cougs are doing what they do: Make bad teams look great, thanks to their own, unequaled terribleness.</p>
<p>The Cougar offense has been awful, as <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78188/jeff-tuel">Jeff Tuel</a> has been under duress all day ... again. He's 10-of-24 for 131 yards with an interception and five sacks. The Cougars' two best passing plays have been when Tuel broke the pocket and found a guy uncovered.</p>
<p>This about covers the first half:</p>
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<p>Coach Leach to Jess: Right now we're not even playing hard. .. One of least courageous efforts ever seen by O and D lines ..</p>
— COUGFANcom (@COUGFANcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/COUGFANcom/status/264828417944457216" data-datetime="2012-11-03T20:36:29+00:00">November 3, 2012</a>
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<p>Yep, that about says it all.</p>
https://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3595956/wsu-vs-utah-halftime-recap-utes-embarrassing-cougs-31-0Jeff Nusser2012-11-03T12:49:01-07:002012-11-03T12:49:01-07:00Cougars down 14-0 after the 1st quarter
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<p>The Washington State Cougars trail the Utah Utes 14-0 after the first quarter of Saturday's game.</p>
<p>WSU moved the ball on its opening possession, but were unable to come away with points. The Cougar defense forced a three-and-out but the offense took over deep in their own end. After a punt, John White got free for a 47-yard touchdown run to give Utah the early 7-0 lead.</p>
<p>After another WSU punt, Utah was again able to move the ball, driving into the WSU redzone. Once again, the Utes were able to capitalize with a touchdown to take a 14-0 lead. Utah was able to convert a third-and-19 to keep the drive going which was aided by a questionable personal foul call against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78199/casey-locker">Casey Locker</a>.</p>
<p>For the third straight possession, WSU was unable to get anything going and was forced to punt after its second three-and-out of the game. The Utes are once again moving the ball and will open the second quarter with the ball at midfield.</p>
https://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3595842/wsu-vs-utah-score-updateMark Sandritter2012-11-03T11:29:17-07:002012-11-03T11:29:17-07:00Game thread: Join the discussion (if you dare)
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<figcaption>Utah fans have already rushed the field to prepare for today's contest. | George Frey</figcaption>
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<p>The time is almost here for the Cougs to battle the Utes. Join us for the disussion.</p> <p>The Washington State Cougars take on the Utah Utes this afternoon, still in search of their first Pac-12 win of the year. The Cougs may have played their best and most complete game of the season in a narrow loss to Stanford last week. They were driving with a chance to tie the game late against a ranked team on the road, and that hasn't happened much lately.</p>
<p>Utah's style has some similarities, as they bring a run-heavy attack with a dominant defensive line. The good news for WSU is that the Utes haven't been nearly as good on offense as Stanford, and the Cougs shut down the Cardinal's vaunted running attack last week.</p>
<p>WSU has seemingly followed up every encouraging performance with a dud in recent years, and it will be interesting to see if they can string together a couple of good performances.</p>
<p>Remember to keep the illegal stream links out of the thread.</p>
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<div class="pane sports_data_widget events clearfix"><div class="next_game"> <h3>Next Game</h3> <div class="pane-body"> <p class="game-title"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/washington-st-cougars">Washington St. Cougars</a> <br> <span class="blog_link">@ <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/utah-utes">Utah Utes</a> </span></p> <p class="game-info"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/events/96437">Saturday, Nov 3, 2012, 12:00 PM PDT</a><br> Rice-Eccles Stadium</p> <div class="coverage"> <div class="entry"> <h5><a href="http://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3595450/wsu-vs-utah-football-craft-beer-sierra-nevada-harvest">WSU vs. Utah: Baxter the Pekapoo's beer of the game</a></h5> <p class="byline"><span class="author">posted by <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Craig%20Powers">Craig Powers</a></span> <span class="time">7 minutes ago</span></p> <p class="byline">1 comment | 0 recs</p> </div> <div class="entry"> <h5><a href="http://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3593512/wsu-vs-stanford-10-sacks-Jeff-Tuel-offensive-line">WSU vs Utah: How did Stanford get to Tuel, and can the Utes do it too?</a></h5> <p class="byline"><span class="author">posted by <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Brian%20J.%20Anderson">Brian J. Anderson</a></span> <span class="time">about 1 hour ago</span></p> <p class="byline">0 comments | 1 rec</p> </div> <div class="entry"> <h5><a href="http://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3594262/wsu-cougars-washington-state-football">Hot Cougar Action: Gameday links</a></h5> <p class="byline"><span class="author">posted by <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Mark%20Sandritter">Mark Sandritter</a></span> <span class="time">about 5 hours ago</span></p> <p class="byline">2 comments | 0 recs</p> </div> </div> <p class="foot clearfix"><span class="link-more"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/events/96437">Complete Coverage ></a></span></p> </div> </div></div>
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<p><em><strong>Go Cougs!</strong></em></p>
https://www.cougcenter.com/2012/11/3/3595548/wsu-vs-utah-game-thread-tv-schedule-start-time-and-moreCraig Powers2012-11-03T11:18:18-07:002012-11-03T11:18:18-07:00Bax honors his home state's coolest industry today
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<figcaption>Baxter the Pekapoo, with his friend Boycat ready to pounce.</figcaption>
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<p>Baxter heads west for this week's selection, and shows a little regional pride.</p> <p>Baxter the pekapoo has had a bit of a lazy Saturday so far. His best buddy Amanda is back from work, so he has spent the majority of the time lounging around with her. His roommate Boycat was getting a little jealous of all the attention Baxter has received on the internet, and decided to photobomb today's picture, as you can see above. </p>
<p>This isn't boycat's first appearance on the internet, that came years ago on the home for cats: Youtube.</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/M0zou2E-Zqk" height="315" width="420"></iframe></p>
<p>Fall is now in full swing, and that means no shortage of seasonal beers. Octoberfest and Pumpkin Ales reign supreme this time of year, but those aren't the best parts of the autumn offerings.</p>
<p>Harvest time happens in the fall, and that means a bunch of breweries release fresh hop (or wet hop) ales. Typically, hop growers dry out their hops or put them in pellet form for easier storage and transport. However, some of the hops that are picked in the fall are sent straight to breweries to make some of the best tasting beers around.</p>
<p>Sierra Nevada is the nation's biggest craft brewery, and they use their power to procure some of the best hop varieties. This year they produced Northern Hemisphere Harvest Wet Hop Ale 2012 using fresh hops from the Yakima Valley.</p>
<p>I'm a sucker for any beer that mentions Yakima on the label, as it is my home town. I've been on many brewery tours in my day, and I often mention with pride that I from the town where most of the hops are grown. Sierra Nevada's Harvest mentions right on the bottle that the hops were picked in the Yakima Valley, then sent straight to their brewery and added to the beer within 24 hours of harvest. The result is a more complex hop presence than one typically gets with IPAs (and yes, Harvest beers are always hop-heavy, because they would be pointless otherwise).</p>
<p><b>Craig's Review: </b>I love fresh hop ales, and this one does not disappoint. Sierra Nevada is always good at showcasing the flavors of their hop varieties, and this one is complex without being heavy. The beer pours an amber color and has a wonderfully floral hop aroma. </p>
<p>The wet hops provide a more resinous flavor, and one that lingers far longer on the tongue. No need to rush with this beer, as the flavor hangs around for a while. I savored it last night, and took about three hours to down the 24-ounce bottle. </p>
<p>This is the rare time Baxter has suggested a beer that is available in most of the country. I would recommend you find this, and any other wet hop ale next time you visit your favorite beverage center. I also tried Founder's Harvest Ale this week, and it was just as delicious.</p>
<p><b>Baxter's review:</b> Again, I don't like smelling the beer. The carbonation gets in my nose and makes an icky feeling. However, I was surprised to find out I love this beer. Craig gave me a taste and I was begging for more. He held the cup in front of me, and I tried to drink out of it, but he pulled it away. Maybe it was because I like to lick Boycat's backside. </p>
<p>Anyways, Craig poured me a little bit in a bowl, and I lapped it up. Then we watched a funny movie and I had a real good time.</p>
<p>So Baxter and I will be honoring the hop growers of our home state with this week's selection, what will you be having?</p>
https://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3595450/wsu-vs-utah-football-craft-beer-sierra-nevada-harvestCraig Powers2012-11-03T06:01:13-07:002012-11-03T06:01:13-07:00Hot Cougar Action: Gameday links
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<p>Gameday is here, but before the Cougars take on the Utes, we have plenty of morning links.</p> <p>There seems to be some optimism heading into this afternoon's game which is a nice change, but I can't help but fear that optimism is going to turn into rage by the end of the day. </p>
<p>Coming off a strong showing against Stanford, it seems a good portion of Cougar fans are cautiously optimistic about the matchup with Utah. I was doing an excellent job of not letting myself be optimistic all week, the Craig had to go and write favorable previews and get me all excited. The feeling I have right now is how I imagine young teenagers feel when they go out in their backyard to record some video with the hopes of becoming YouTube famous.</p>
<p>They think everyone is going to like it and they will get 10 million views and make enough money to drop out of middle school. Instead, the video sucks. They get 73 views -- most of which are from their mom -- and their friend Jared harshes on their mellow by calling them dorks in the comments.</p>
<p>Prior to writing this, I found myself looking at WSU's schedule and thinking, "maybe they can run the table ..." I should know better -- in fact I do know better -- but there is no controlling blind optimism. Just like those kids think jumping from a tree branch and doing a summersault is HILARIOUS, I think the Cougars could come out with a win today. </p>
<p>There is a good chance Utah plays the role of Jared today and crushes our dreams. Then again this video has nearly <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=LJP1DphOWPs" target="_blank">13 million views so maybe anything </a>really can happen.</p>
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<p><b>Football</b></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.pacifictakes.com/2012/11/2/3573750/washington-state-football-vs-utah-cougars-match-up-well-with-utes">WSU Football vs. Utah: Cougars Match-up Well with Utes - Pacific Takes</a><br>The Cougars have the chance to make a mini-statement Saturday against Utah.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/2012/nov/02/wsu-looking-to-end-losing-streak-at-utah/">Cougars looking to end losing streak at Utah " Kitsap Sun</a><br>SALT LAKE CITY — The youthful Washington State Cougars have received so much praise for their strong performance at then-No. 19 Stanford last week, some players might be tempted to let it impact their preparation for Saturday's game at Utah.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/20796262/five-prospects-to-watch-in-week-10">Five Prospects to Watch in Week 10 - CBSSports</a><br><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78222/travis-long">Travis Long</a>, DE/OLB, Washington State: When the Washington State Cougars face off against Utah Saturday, it will be the Utes' spectacular defensive tackle <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114734/star-lotulelei">Star Lotulelei</a> who earns all of the pregame hype...</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865565912/Utah-Utes-football-Utah-vs-Washington-State-from-an-insiders-perspective.html">Utah Utes football: Utah vs. Washington State from an insider's perspective | Deseret News</a><br>SALT LAKE CITY — Christian Caple covers Washington State football for the Spokesman-Review and knows the team as well as anyone. We asked Caple five questions to gain a better perspective on Utah's next opponent.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/765614572/Utah-Utes-football-Gameday-glance-vs-Washington-State.html">Utah Utes football: Gameday glance vs. Washington State | Deseret News</a><br>For Washington State ... Bowl eligibility. One more loss and the Cougars have no chance of going bowling in Mike Leach's first season at the helm. Leach took Texas Tech to 10 consecutive bowls during his tenure with the Red Raiders.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/utes/55199269-89/utes-cougars-utah-game.html.csp">Utah football: Utes, Cougars have different styles, same goal | The Salt Lake Tribune</a><br>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/utah-utes">Utah Utes</a> and Washington State Cougars might be as far apart as two teams could be in philosophy and personalities, but they are right in sync when it comes to the goal of becoming a better team in the Pac-12.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ksl.com/?sid=22798070&nid=635">What to watch for: Washington State at Utah | ksl.com</a><br>Last season the Utes pulled out an overtime win at Washington State during a terrible snowstorm. This year, the Utes will be at home under what should be clear skies Saturday. The Utes are clearly the more talented team, but the schematic matchup seems to favor Washington State.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://seattletimes.com/html/cougarfootball/2019592459_cougarmatchup03.html">Scouting report: Washington State at Utah | Cougar Football | The Seattle Times</a><br>The setup: Both teams trying to sustain bowl hopes, but WSU has no margin for error, needing to win out to do it. Utah needs only to win three of final four against a softer schedule.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/nov/03/cougars-face-utahs-solid-home-record/">Cougars face Utah’s solid home record - Spokesman.com - Nov. 3, 2012</a><br>SALT LAKE CITY – Hope never seemed as high for the 2012 Washington State Cougars as the last time they flew into this city’s airport.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/nov/03/2/">2 Minute Drill - Spokesman.com - Nov. 3, 2012</a><br>1No more sacks. OK, so maybe that’s an unrealistic expectation. But the Cougars at least need to protect quarterback <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78188/jeff-tuel">Jeff Tuel</a> better than they did last week against Stanford when the Cardinal sacked him 10 times. A strong offensive performance is possible against a Utah team that has been shaky against the pass this season, but the Utes’ front is strong enough to put Tuel on his back if the offensive line doesn’t play well.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/11/03/2354589/pats-on-back-aside-nothing-beats.html">Pats on back aside, nothing beats a win | WSU Cougars - The News Tribune</a><br>The youthful Washington State Cougars have received so much praise for their strong performance at then-No. 19 Stanford last week, some players might be tempted to let it impact their preparation for today’s game at Utah.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Utes-aim-to-keep-Washington-St-winless-in-Pac-12-4003492.php">Utes aim to keep Washington St. winless in Pac-12 - SFGate</a><br>Mike Leach's first trip to Utah this year was a forgettable 24-point loss to Brigham Young in the season opener.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://seattle.sbnation.com/2012/11/2/3592708/cougars-utes-game-time-schedule-preview">Washington State vs. Utah: Cougars defense seeing incremental improvement - SB Nation Seattle</a><br>The Washington State Cougars defense has slowly improved throughout the season, which was highlighted in their effort against Stanford last week.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865565957/Utah-Utes-football-Utah-changing-priorities-to-face-Washington-States-Air-Raid.html">Utah Utes football: Utah changing priorities to face Washington State's 'Air Raid' | Deseret News</a><br>Throwing the ball is more than just a passing fancy for Mike Leach and the Washington State Cougars. They chuck it around pretty good. In last week’s 24-17 loss at Stanford, WSU’s offense racked up 401 yards in the air. The ground game wound up with a deficit, minus-16 yards.</p>
<p><b>WSU Athletics</b></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.wsucougars.com/sports/w-volley/spec-rel/110312aaa.html">Volleyball Triumphs Over Utah 3-2 - The Washington State University Official Athletic Site</a><br>Jaicee Harris and Rachel Todorovich combined for 29 kills to lead the Washington State volleyball team (12-14, 2-12 Pac-12) to a 3-2 win over Utah (12-14, 3-10) Friday night at Bohler Gym, giving the Cougars their second consecutive Pac-12 win. After a painfully slow start to the night, WSU captured the match with set scores of 10-25, 25-20, 21-25, 25-23, and 16-14.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.wsucougars.com/sports/w-baskbl/spec-rel/110212aaa.html">Cougars Host Western Oregon Saturday For Exhibition - The Washington State University Official Athletic Site</a><br>COUGARS HOST WESTERN OREGON SATURDAY FOR EXHIBITION: Washington State women's basketball continues its preseason schedule with another home exhibition against Western Oregon University 12:30 p.m., Saturday at Beasley Coliseum.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.wsucougars.com/sports/w-soccer/recaps/110212aaa.html">Cougar Soccer Leaves Nothing on the Field and Allows No Points on the Board - The Washington State University Official Athletic Site</a><br>PULLMAN, Wash. - Washington State soccer closed out the regular season with a 1-0 victory over arch rival Washington at Lower Soccer Field, Friday.</p>
https://www.cougcenter.com/wsu-vs-utah/2012/11/3/3594262/wsu-cougars-washington-state-footballMark Sandritter