Thoughts on being 2-1

Under the lights at Martin Stadium the Cougs took care of business against Wyoming, as expected. Many fans are feeling underwhelmed this morning and I am honestly not sure if I agree.

Now that the non-conference portion of the schedule is over we can reflect on expectations and tempered expectations. An opening week loss to Portland State certainly put a major strain on the season but a rebound in New Jersey last week brought everyone’s hopes back. A 17 point victory over a Mountain West team puts WSU with a winning record as they set out in PAC-12 play.

“WSU has now won back to back games for the first time since 2013”

I am firm believer in momentum and trending in college football. Each game is truly different and that’s why they say the games aren’t played on paper. One week you can’t catch the ball and lose to an FCS school and the following Saturday you march 90 yards in a minute plus to seal a road victory against a Big Ten school.

In no way am I justifying losing to Portland State but the Vikings are now ranked #18 in FCS. Rutgers has faced incredible challenges off the field this year and WSU came into that match up more mentally prepared to win. It was easy to see the confidence and energy the team carried on the field. Against Wyoming the Cougs put together a solid second half to close a game out. Zero points allowed and 2 turnovers after halftime to send the Cowboys packing.

Everyone is tired of mediocrity and most fans are not especially optimistic about the 9 remaining games and our chance to make the postseason. I disagree. WSU has now won back to back games for the first time since 2013 and has two full weeks to prepare for Cal, a team they beat in Berkeley 2 years ago. Put the sights on Cal, put the best 4 quarters of football together and see what scoreboard says in the end.