WSU Cougars vs Washington Huskies Apple Cup 2013: 5 Things to Watch

Nov 16, 2013; Tucson, AZ, USA; Washington State Cougars kicker Andrew Furney (49) attempts a field goal during the first quarter against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. The Cougars beat the Wildcats 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

4: Kicking Game

Anybody remember what happened in the kicking game at the end of last year’s Apple Cup game? Of course you do! Andrew Furney nails a long one to tie it. Travis Coons blows a tweener and game-winner at the gun, Furney sends the Cougs off right in OT!

This year, I’m really hoping it doesn’t come down to Coons at the end, as he’s turned into, get this, the best kicker in the conference at 12 of 13 on the year! Furney’s not far behind at 14 of 18 and will win it if called upon in a game winning situation, I have no doubts. But he has been known to miss critical kicks earlier in the game.

So naturally they’re not the most important part of the equation. Coons is also the freaking punter for UW and is 4th in conference there at just over 41 yards per, but who will punt for WSU? Mike Bowlin is a weekly contributor to adversely affecting the field position game but Wes Concepcion doesn’t have much of a better track record in practice. Still, the ladder replaced the former midway through last week’s game and would probably be the wise choice to start this week.

What to watch: A shank… from anybody.