Washington State Cougars Football: 2021 Year In Review
Andrew Elderbaum
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Earning a job
Defensive Coordinator Jake Dickert took over as Interim Head Coach after Rolovich’s dismissal. He kept the team together by embracing an “us against the world” mentality. The University was impressed with the way Dickert handled himself and represented the school under difficult circumstances.
Wins over Arizona, Arizona State, and Washington, as well as a good showing against Oregon down the stretch, showed he could do a good job leading the team on the field, as well. After destroying UW in the Apple Cup, Dickert had the interim removed from his title, getting the job permanently.
Bowl Disappointment
After finishing the 2021 season 7-5, the Washington State Cougars received an invitation to play in the Sun Bowl. Original opponent Miami had to drop out due to Covid-19 issues. After a scramble to find a replacement, Central Michigan, whose bowl opponent also canceled, stepped in to play WSU.
Playing without 60 percent of the offensive line, their top two running backs, starting corner, and backup quarterback, the Cougars found themselves shut out and trailing by 21 points at halftime. They came out in the third quarter and made a game of it before ultimately falling 24-21. The loss was a bitter pill to swallow but laid a positive groundwork for 2022.
Related Story: Cougars Transfer Portal Updates
De’Zhaun Stribling touchdown!
Cougs trail by one score late in the third… pic.twitter.com/CTMVgbuLlN
— Cougar Sports Network (@CougSportsNet) December 31, 2021
What did you think about the Washington State Cougars’ 2021? Let us know in the comments section below or on social media.