The transfer portal is well underway, and the Cougs have already brought in a couple of difference-making players that we’ll cover later on. However, the most intriguing addition so far is FCS UC Davis red shirt freshman quarterback Caden Pinnick.
Here is a look at some of his highlights for those that are curious.
Caden Pinnick – 6’0”, 180 lbs – Red Shirt Freshman - 3 years of eligibilty left
13 Games | 3,206 Yards | 32 TDs | 10 INTs | 70% Completion
437 Rushing Yards | 3 Rushing TDs
Pinnick led the Aggies to the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs, where they fell to Cinderella Illinois State—but that loss was no fault of Pinnick. He threw for a season-best 402 yards on 71% completions, with three touchdowns and one interception in that game. Leading UC Davis to a 9–4 record, Pinnick also faced two opponents with direct ties to WSU this season.
Against Washington in Week 2, UC Davis lost 70–10 in a game where Pinnick struggled, throwing for just 50 yards with one touchdown and one interception. The Aggies also squared off against Idaho and came away with a 28–14 road win, with Pinnick accounting for 288 total yards, three passing touchdowns, and one rushing score.
Reasons for Optimism
First things first, landing a freshman with 3 years of eligibility left out of the portal gives the coaching staff the ability to take a long-term approach with Pinnick—something that simply isn’t possible with seniors or graduate transfers who may only spend a short time in Pullman.
Pinnick is an elusive quarterback who can extend plays and create highlights when the pocket breaks down. He’s also a legitimate dual-threat option who should fit well in Kirby Moore’s outside run scheme, capable of pulling the ball and keeping defenses honest.
And purely from a fun-factor standpoint, Pinnick has the makeup of an instant crowd favorite.
Reasons to Be Hesitant
At 6’0” on a good day and 180 pounds, seeing over defensive lines and throwing consistently from the pocket becomes more challenging when jumping up a level against bigger, stronger, and faster Division I athletes.
Not to harp too much on his size, but durability will always be a concern—especially given his willingness and ability to run, which naturally exposes him to additional hits.
Pinnick will also need to speed up his decision-making, something that typically comes with experience. Despite his elusiveness, sacks were an issue at times during his freshman season, as he took at least two sacks in nine of his 13 games. Coaching and reps should help clean that up, but as with many playmakers, the ability to create spectacular plays can also lead to negative ones.
Final Thoughts
Pinnick is a highly intriguing prospect and someone who should compete for the job this upcoming season, but it’s by no means a guarantee that we see him under center next year. The most exciting part of his profile is his youth and the opportunity for this coaching staff to truly integrate him into the offensive system over time. Go Cougs!