Washington State Cougars Football: Mistake to Overlook Cougs in 2020
Jahad Woods, Washington State Cougars.
Defense on the rise
There’s no nice way to put it, Wazzu’s defense was horrible in 2019. They were second to last in the conference, allowing 456.8 yards per game. While the Cougs offense was scoring points through the front door, the defense was giving them up via the back door. The good news is the D should be improved in 2020.
The Cougs return a strong group of linebackers this year. Edge players Ron Stone Jr. and Jahad Woods will increase their sack totals from 2019 under new defensive coordinator Jake Dickert. It’s the other parts of the defense that are in doubt.
If Dickert has the same success at WSU that he had at Wyoming fans should see a huge difference. Stopping the run, an area where the Cougars struggled last year, should get a nice boost. Additionally, new pass coverage packages should help cover a few holes in the secondary. Wazzu’s defensive group must step it up this season. They have some talented players in key spots but It all comes down to execution.
Coach with a few tricks
This isn’t Rolovich’s first rodeo as a college head coach. It also isn’t the first time he’s replaced an offensive “mastermind” either. At Hawaii, Rolovich succeeded Norm Chow as head coach. In his four year tenure, he had only one losing season and won two of three bowl games.
Last year the Rainbow Warriors won 10 games under his leadership. His QB Cole McDonald had a very Anthony Gordon-like season. The senior completed 326 passes for 4,135 yards and 33 touchdowns. Rolovich knows his way around the gridiron and how to run a team.
Do you think the Washington State Cougars will finish last in the Pac-12 North? Let us know in the comments section below or on social media.