Full Breakdown
Washington Holds Off Washington State 24-10 in Season-Opening Apple Cup
9/7/2026, 3:56:21 AM
Game Summary
On September 6, 2026, No. 17 Washington defeated Washington State 24-10 in the 118th Apple Cup at Husky Stadium. The Huskies built a 10-0 lead in the first half on a 5-yard rushing touchdown by quarterback Demond Williams Jr. and a 48-yard field goal by senior kicker Tyler Robles. Washington State narrowed the margin to 10-7 in the fourth quarter when quarterback Caden Pinnick ran for an 11-yard touchdown. Washington answered with a 1-yard touchdown pass to wideout Rashid Williams, extending the lead to 17-7, and later added an 11-yard rushing score by junior running back Jayden Limar to seal the victory.
Background & Context
The Apple Cup, first played in 1900, traditionally concludes the regular season, but the 2026 edition opened the campaign after both programs entered different conferences—Washington in the Big Ten and Washington State in the re-formed Pac-12. The rivalry continues under a five-year agreement despite the realignment, preserving the in-state bragging rights tradition.
Key Statistics
- Washington: 268 passing yards (24-of-35) and 61 rushing yards (Demond Williams Jr.); 24 total points; 3 turnovers forced; held Washington State to 242 total yards and 0-of-11 on third-down attempts.
- Washington State: 142 passing yards (16-of-25) and 61 rushing yards (Pinnick); 10 points; 3 turnovers (2 interceptions, 1 fumble); missed two field-goal attempts (52-yard and 42-yard).
- Turnovers: Washington forced a fumble by running back Kirby Vorhees and an interception by freshman defensive back Jeron Jones, both leading to short-field opportunities.
- Penalties: Washington State benefited from two third-down penalties that extended a drive, while Washington’s defense was penalized for targeting, negating a potential turnover.
Official Statements & Responses
Washington’s head coach Jedd Fisch emphasized the rivalry’s significance, noting the team’s confidence entering the season. Washington State’s former coach Jimmy Rogers highlighted the program’s resource disparity, describing the financial gap that challenges competitive balance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Here’s the reality. We don’t have the resources, naturally, to compete with $30 million — a roster that’s loaded,” — Jimmy Rogers, former Washington State coach.
- “We have held on to this rivalry at this point,” — Jedd Fisch, Washington head coach.
What’s Next
Washington will host Utah State later this month, while Washington State travels to Manhattan, Kansas, to face Kansas State the same weekend. Both programs will look to build on the Apple Cup outcomes as the season progresses.
