Washington State's offense showed offensive promise during the first half of their game against Utah State, according to an October 9 report. The Cougars entered halftime with a 16-3 lead following a performance marked by improved play-calling and time of possession.
First-year coach Kirby Moore made his Washington State Cougars play-calling debut for the offense during the contest. Under Moore, the Cougars achieved favorable down-and-distance situations and controlled the clock, holding the football for 20 minutes and 31 seconds. The team recorded 193 yards in the first half, representing their second-highest first-half total of the season and their highest total against an FBS opponent.
Caden Pinnick continued as the starting quarterback, benefiting from Moore's emphasis on quick decisions and the use of misdirection plays. Leo Pulalasi provided a highlight with a 54-yard touchdown run, which was the longest of his career and exceeded his previous career-long of 45 yards against Colorado State. Jack Stevens contributed to the scoring by drilling three field goals of 40-plus yards, including a 50-yarder in the second quarter.
The Cougars' scoring drive included a 5-yard scramble by Pinnick on a fourth-and-2 play. The scoring was aided by an unsportsmanlike penalty on Utah State safety David Kabongo, who shoved WSU receiver Daniel Blood after a sack of Pinnick was wiped out.
While Washington State held a 16-3 lead at halftime, the Aggies eventually rallied in the second half to defeat the Cougars.
