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Difference makers: Washington’s strong defensive performance overshadowed by Myles Gaskin’s big night

Washington Huskies running back Myles Gaskin (9) runs the ball and is tackled by Washington State Cougars safety Hunter Dale (26) during the first half of the 2017 Apple Cup on Thursday, November 23, 2017, at Husky Stadium in Seattle. (Tyler Tjomsland / The Spokesman-Review)
By Jim Meehan jimm@spokesman.com(509) 459-5585

Myles Gaskin

Washington’s junior running back repeatedly broke tackles en route to 192 yards rushing and four touchdowns on 25 carries. Gaskin had room to operate as the offensive line controlled WSU’s front. When he didn’t, he usually made the first defender miss. He had 158 yards and two scores against WSU in last year’s Apple Cup.

Keishawn Bierria

UW linebacker knocked the ball loose from scrambling WSU quarterback Luke Falk and it was recovered by cornerback Austin Joyner. Falk had two hands on the football, but couldn’t maintain possession after Bierria’s hit. Washington converted the turnover into a touchdown for a 14-0 lead early in the second quarter. Bierria finished with four tackles.

Vita Vea

Huskies defensive lineman and his friends up front worked over WSU’s offensive line. Vea and company put relentless heat on quarterback Luke Falk, often with just three pass-rushers. The Huskies came up with four turnovers, five sacks and seven tackles for loss.