The Wyoming Cowboys will wrap up their 2023 football season with a trip to the Palouse to face Washington State on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. MT, the Sheridan Press reports.
It marks the first time the Cowboys have visited Pullman since 2015, and the first meeting between the two teams since 2019. This game will also be the first time since 2001 that Wyoming closes its season against a non-conference opponent, with the Cowboys having played Kansas that year.
The game will be broadcast on The CW, with Ted Robinson calling the action, Ryan Leaf providing analysis, and Nigel Burton reporting from the sidelines. For radio listeners, the game will be available on the Cowboy Sports Network across 26 affiliate stations, with Keith Kelly and Kevin McKinney on the call.
Wyoming enters this final game of the season with notable strengths on both offense and defense. The Cowboys’ third-down defense has been exceptional, ranking third in the nation and first in the Mountain West, holding opponents to just 27% on third downs. In their recent victory over Boise State, Wyoming held the Broncos to 1-of-10 on third down, a testament to the team’s defensive prowess.
On offense, Wyoming has benefited from the strong performances of key players, including kicker John Hoyland, who hit two field goals against Boise State, including a season-long 54-yard kick. Wide receiver Justin Stevenson had a career game against the Broncos, setting career highs with four catches and 82 yards, including a 63-yard reception that helped set up a field goal. The Cowboys also saw solid contributions from running backs Harrison Waylee and Jamri Ferrell, with both players showing consistency in recent weeks.
Defensively, linebackers Shae Suiaunoa and DeVonne Harris each recorded a sack against Boise State, and Connor Shay, another linebacker, has been a standout in recent games, leading the team in tackles. Wyoming’s defense has been especially strong in third-quarter play during conference matchups, allowing just 20 points in total across seven games.
The Cowboys will face a formidable opponent in Washington State, which enters the game with an 8-3 record. The Cougars were ranked No. 18 in the College Football Playoff rankings two weeks ago, but have since suffered two losses to New Mexico and Oregon State. Washington State boasts a dynamic offense, led by dual-threat quarterback John Mateer, who has thrown for 2,957 yards and 28 touchdowns, while also rushing for 770 yards and a program-record 14 touchdowns. Wide receiver Kyle Williams, with 967 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, is another key playmaker for the Cougars. Despite their offensive success, Washington State’s defense has struggled, allowing 29.3 points and 437.1 yards per game.
