Washington State Cougars at midseason – Going forward from here
Things to fix
During the bye week, here are five areas that the Washington State Cougars can work toward fixing.
Pass Defense
Due to some key injuries, it’s tempting to give the defense a “pass” on their coverage issues. Through Week 7, Wazzu’s pass defense allows 243.6 yards per game (85th in FBS), 7.32 yards per attempt (69th), and 72 first downs (83rd).
The Cougs’ defense needs to get off the field. Where is that Washington State Cougars’ pass defense that stacked the box in Wisconsin and dared the Badgers to beat them in single coverage?
QB Bo Nix ➡️ WR Troy Franklin. TD Ducks ! 🦆
Oregon prend (enfin) l’avantage à Washington State. 37-34.
📺 @CFBONFOX pic.twitter.com/fFL880g3cD
— TBP College Football (@thebluepennant) September 24, 2022
Bell-less passing offense
The passing offense is a little off since wide receiver Renard Bell injured his arm in the first half against USC. They don’t seem to have the same explosiveness.
It’s not just the numbers. Defenses have to honor Bell’s abilities which means the other receivers have more opportunities.
Running Game
Wazzu’s offense is called the “Air Raid” for a reason. But that doesn’t prevent them from gaining yards on the ground when they do run.
Because of the system, throw rushing yards per game out the window. Yards per carry is another story. The Cougs average 3.58 YPC, which is 104th out of 131 FBS teams. They have to do better.
Hopefully, new starter Jaylen Jenkins can help. The dynamic rusher averages 7.0 YPC when he takes a handoff. Maybe Ward needs to feed him the ball a little more often.
Turnovers
This season, WSU has a -4 turnover margin. To be honest, as good as quarterback Cameron Ward has played this season, several of his 8 interceptions (tied for the most in the Pac-12) have been real momentum killers.
The Incarnate Word transfer needs to make better decisions and learn to throw the ball away when he doesn’t have someone open. His competition level is appreciated, but that should include trying to thread the needle against double coverage.
Additionally, ball security needs to be a priority.
FIM DE JOGO EM MADISON.
Com esse fumble recuperado de forma providencial, Washington State derruba Wisconsin por 17-14! #UpsetAlert pic.twitter.com/0jRWV88Mvg
— collegefootball.com.br (@collegefootbr) September 10, 2022