2024 Boeing Apple Cup: Washington Falls Short in a Thriller at Lumen Field

The 2024 Boeing Apple Cup delivered the thrilling conclusion that college football fans have come to expect from one of the Pacific Northwest’s fiercest rivalries. However, it was Washington State that emerged victorious with a 24-19 win over the Washington Huskies on Saturday at Seattle’s Lumen Field. This marked just the third time since 2008 that the Cougars secured the coveted Apple Cup trophy, solidifying their rare win in this storied series.

This year’s game was particularly unique, taking place at Lumen Field as part of a five-year agreement aimed at preserving the historic rivalry between the two schools, despite their departure from the same conference. The crowd at the NFL venue was heavily painted purple, with Washington fans outnumbering those clad in crimson, showing the strong support for the home-state Huskies.

Game Recap: The Battle to the Final Possession

For Washington State, it was an opportunity to end the night in celebration. For Washington, it was a story of missed opportunities. Despite an admirable effort from Will Rogers, who threw for 314 yards and a touchdown, and Giles Jackson, who posted eight catches for 162 yards including a 31-yard touchdown in the first quarter, the Huskies couldn’t convert their key chances in the red zone.

Washington found itself inside Washington State’s 25-yard line three times but could only come away with field goals instead of touchdowns—a difference that ultimately decided the game. Despite the offensive prowess of Rogers and Jackson, the Huskies’ inability to finish drives became their Achilles’ heel. Kicker Grady Gross was reliable as ever, converting all four of his field goal attempts with career-highs from 44, 42, 24, and 43 yards, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Cougars.

With the score sitting at 24-19 in favor of Washington State, the Huskies had one last chance to stage a comeback. Starting from their own 31-yard line with 3:40 left in the game, Rogers hit Jackson with a massive 45-yard pass on the first play, sparking hope for the Washington faithful. The Huskies quickly advanced down to Washington State’s 10-yard line, but the Cougar defense held strong when it mattered most.

On third-and-goal, Denzel Boston was forced out of bounds at the 1-yard line, setting up a dramatic fourth-and-goal situation. In a risky call, Washington opted for an option play to the short-side of the field, but Washington State’s defense was ready. Running back Jonah Coleman, who had been effective with 75 yards on 14 carries, was stopped for a 2-yard loss, ending Washington’s hopes of reclaiming the Apple Cup.

Washington State’s Victory: A Rare Feat

For Washington State, the win was a triumph over a program that had dominated the rivalry for more than a decade. The victory marked just the third time since 2008 that the Cougars took home the Apple Cup trophy, underscoring the significance of this year’s victory in the context of the rivalry.

The Cougars’ quarterback, Cameron Ward, was instrumental in leading his team to victory, managing the game effectively and spreading the ball to a host of receivers. Ward threw for 257 yards and two touchdowns while adding a key rushing touchdown that put Washington State ahead late in the game.

Washington State’s defense, though tested, made critical stops when needed, particularly in the red zone and on that pivotal fourth-down play that sealed the game.

The Impact of the Venue and Future of the Rivalry

The 2024 Boeing Apple Cup, held at Lumen Field, marked the second year of a five-year arrangement to host the game at the NFL venue. This agreement was struck to ensure that the Apple Cup remains an annual fixture despite both schools moving to different conferences. The atmosphere at Lumen Field, filled with passionate fans from both sides, proved that the rivalry remains as intense as ever, even outside the confines of the traditional home venues in Seattle and Pullman.

Washington and Washington State have maintained that the rivalry will continue despite the shifting landscape of college football, with this year’s thrilling edition proving that the Apple Cup is still one of the most anticipated games on the college football calendar.

What’s Next for Both Programs?

For Washington, the loss is a disappointing setback as they look to bounce back and focus on the remainder of their season. While the defeat may sting, there were several bright spots, including the connection between Rogers and Jackson, which could continue to be a dangerous weapon for the Huskies in future games. The challenge will be finding a way to convert those red-zone opportunities into touchdowns, a crucial element if they hope to compete for higher honors this season.

On the other hand, Washington State leaves Lumen Field riding high with their undefeated record intact. The Cougars are poised to build on this win as they enter conference play, with this victory serving as a confidence booster and a statement to the rest of the league.

The Apple Cup once again delivered a thrilling contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last second. Despite Washington’s efforts, Washington State’s defense made the game-winning stand, preserving a 24-19 victory and ensuring that the Apple Cup will reside in Pullman for at least another year.