StoriesSeptember 14, 2024

Sam Taylor Sports staff
Washington State quarterback John Mateer (10) runs for a touchdown against Washington defensive tackle Sebastian Valdez (50) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)
Washington State quarterback John Mateer (10) runs for a touchdown against Washington defensive tackle Sebastian Valdez (50) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Lindsey Wasson

SEATTLE — It all came down to one play for the Washington State Cougars.One play, and all 11 guys on the field for the Cougars to secure their 24-19 Apple Cup win over the Washington Huskies in the 116th Apple Cup on Saturday at Lumen Field in Seattle.Facing fourh-and-2 and trailing by five, Washington Huskies quarterback Will Rogers took the snap, ran to his right and pitched the ball to the Huskies’ best player, Jonah Coleman.Even the NFL-worthy physicality of Coleman was no use for the swarm of Cougars he faced, spearheaded by WSU senior captain linebacker Kyle Thornton.From there, the Cougs drained the final 1:02 off the clock and invited the thousands of Coug fans in attendance to rush Lumen Field.The team was in prime position to win thanks to an instant classic performance from WSU quarterback John Mateer.The third-year sophomore signal-caller completed 17-of-34 passes for 245 yards, one touchdown and one interception.
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Mateer relied on his teammate Josh Meredith frequently, including three times on the opening drive and for a 16-yard touchdown in which Meredith caught it at the 9 and roared in for the score.Mateer scored two TDs with his legs as the offensive lines allowed two sacks and did not allow a single QB hurry.Dickert’s defense stole the show again with 61 tackles, forcing multiple three and outs.The Cougs are 3-0 and winners of the 34th Apple Cup in school history. Washington falls to 2-1.Come back later for the full story.Taylor can be reached at 208-848-2268, staylor@lmtribune.com or on X (formerly Twitter) @Sam_C_Taylor.

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