Washington State Cougars Prepare for Homecoming Clash Against Hawaii Rainbow Warriors

The Washington State University (WSU) Cougars are set to return to Gesa Field in Pullman, Washington, on Saturday, October 19, for a Homecoming clash against the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors. This matchup comes as the Cougars hold a notable 5-1 record, recently securing a victory over the Fresno State Bulldogs. On the other hand, the Rainbow Warriors are currently facing challenges with a 2-4 record after a substantial 28-7 loss to the #15 ranked Boise State.

This game marks a significant event as it will be the first meeting between WSU and Hawaii since 2009, when the Rainbow Warriors triumphed with a 38-20 victory at CenturyLink Field. Additionally, it is the inaugural meeting between the two teams in Pullman.

Fans can catch the Homecoming game, scheduled to kick off at 12:30 p.m., nationally on The CW network. For viewers in Seattle, the broadcast will be on ARC Seattle – KUNS channel 51. In Spokane, the game can be watched on KSKN channel 22, Yakima-Tri-Cities on CW9, and Portland‘s CW on KRCW channel 32.

Radio enthusiasts can tune into a live broadcast via the Washington Sports Network, Sirius/XM channels 97 or 195, or through the Varsity Network App. The coverage includes pre-game sessions starting two hours before the kickoff and extends to post-game segments with coach and player interviews, along with the Coug Talk call-in show. Key radio stations include KXLY 920AM/100.7 FM in Spokane and KHTR 104.3 FM in Pullman.

The Cougars have made a significant mark this season by opening with a 5-1 record for the first time since 2018. This impressive start has led them to receive 32 votes in the AP Top 25 College Football Poll, ranking 30th overall. The team boasts the No. 19 ranked scoring offense in the nation, spearheaded by quarterback John Mateer. Their defense stands equally strong, being ranked No. 19 nationally with 11 takeaways, highlighted by cornerback Ethan O'Connor, who has recorded three interceptions.

In their recent game against Fresno State, redshirt freshman Ethan O’Connor made headlines by intercepting a pass and returning it 60 yards for a touchdown, helping lead the team to a 25-17 victory. Despite a setback against Boise State, the team bounced back following their bye week to overcome Fresno State, accumulating 172 passing yards, 123 rushing yards, and three touchdowns.