For the first time since 2015, the Wyoming Cowboys will travel to Pullman, Washington, to face the Washington State Cougars, closing their 2024 football season on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. MT.
This non-conference matchup marks the first season finale against a non-conference opponent for Wyoming since 2001. The game will air on The CW, with Ted Robinson on play-by-play, Ryan Leaf providing analysis, and Nigel Burton reporting from the sidelines. Fans can also tune in via the Cowboy Sports Network for live radio coverage.
Wyoming enters the game with one of the nation’s most formidable third-down defenses, holding opponents to just 27% conversion, ranking third nationally and first in the Mountain West. In their recent game against Boise State, the Cowboys limited the Broncos to just 1-of-10 on third downs, well below Boise’s usual 53% conversion rate. Wyoming’s defense also held Boise State to 140 yards under their season average in total offense, showcasing the Cowboys’ ability to limit high-powered offenses.
Linebacker Connor Shay has been a standout, leading the team with 18 tackles in the last two games, while veterans Shae Suiaunoa and DeVonne Harris contributed key sacks in the matchup against Boise State.
Wide receiver Justin Stevenson had a breakout game against Boise State, recording a career-high 82 receiving yards, including a 63-yard catch that set up a key field goal. Jaylen Sargent has also been a consistent deep threat, with six catches of over 30 yards in the past three games. Running back Harrison Waylee, returning from injury, has averaged 84.7 rushing yards per game in his last three outings, while Jamri Ferrell has added 201 rushing yards over his last three games.
Kicker John Hoyland continues to impress, connecting on a season-long 54-yard field goal against Boise State and remaining consistent with 11-of-12 field goals inside 50 yards.
The Cougars, led by quarterback John Mateer, boast a dynamic offense. Mateer has thrown for 2,957 yards and 28 touchdowns while also leading the team with 770 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns—a single-season record for a Washington State quarterback. Wide receiver Kyle Williams leads the receiving corps with 967 yards and 12 touchdown catches. Despite two recent losses, the Cougars’ offense remains potent, averaging 41.5 points per game.
Washington State’s defense has struggled, allowing 29.3 points and 437.1 yards per game. Linebacker Taariq Al-Uqdah leads the team with 68 tackles, while defensive back Ethan O’Connor has four interceptions this season. Head coach Jake Dickert, a former Wyoming defensive coordinator, acknowledges the challenge Wyoming presents.
“They can match anyone’s physicality,” Dickert said.
He noted the Cowboys’ ability to control the game tempo and limit possessions.
Several former Wyoming coaches, including Jake Dickert, Pete Kaligis, and Brent Vernon, are now on Washington State’s staff. Conversely, Wyoming defensive tackles coach Jeff Phelps previously worked at Washington State under former coach Mike Leach.
7220sports.com and Sports Illustrated contributed to this report.
