WSU recap

High point of the game

Imagine this: The Cougars needed a big play down the stretch to sneak out of Corvallis, Ore., with a win … and they got just that. Scott Davis wrecked Oregon State’s chances of a comeback almost by himself, picking up two sacks and another quarterback hit in the final four defensive plays of the game to end the Beavers’ drive.

Low point of the game

Up 6-3 after a lackluster first half, the Cougars appeared to be starting the second half in style. But Alex Brink threw an interception deep in OSU territory, and it looked as if the WSU quarterback would be harkening back to his four-interception second-half at Oregon State from last season. Fortunately for Brink, the defense forced a quick three-and-out to stop the Beavers’ momentum.

A pat on the back

WSU’s defense played its best Pac-10 game in years on Saturday, completely eliminating any threat posed by the Oregon State offense on the ground and in the air. The Cougars continue to get tremendous pressure on the quarterback – a hallmark of their better defenses over the years – and it’s clearly rattling opponents. Beaver quarterback Matt Moore looked shaken for much of the game, and even when he and his team got close to a tying score late in the game, the WSU defense managed to slam the door and seal the win.

Needs fixing

A week after playing a spectacular game against USC, Washington State’s offensive line had an off week against Oregon State. WSU did nothing consistently well in the running game and Brink was under pressure for much of the game as well. One game isn’t enough cause for concern, especially after a great previous performance, but for WSU’s offense to do better its line must do a better job.

Three unanswered questions

1) How serious is Jason Hill’s shoulder injury, and if he’s limited does the Cougar offense go into a funk?

2) Are the Cougars going to be at a disadvantage on special teams every week for the rest of the season?

3) What can WSU do differently in the red zone to score more touchdowns and settle for fewer field goals?

Glenn Kasses