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| WSU quarterback Jaxon Potter struggles in a 59-10 loss to North Texas. |
DENTON, Texas — The Washington State Cougars suffered a crushing 59-10 loss to North Texas on Saturday, marking the first major setback under new head coach Jimmy Rogers. After starting the season 2-0, WSU collapsed with five turnovers, poor special teams play, and defensive breakdowns.
North Texas Hands WSU Cougars a 59-10 Defeat
The loss ranks among the Cougars’ worst in recent memory, leaving fans wondering how the team will respond ahead of the highly anticipated Apple Cup matchup vs Washington Huskies next week.
Turnovers Doom Washington State
- 5 total turnovers (3 interceptions, 2 fumbles)
- 28 points allowed off turnovers
- Blocked punt in the first half
- 6 penalties for 59 yards
Despite only being outgained 410–275 in total yards, WSU’s miscues consistently gave North Texas short fields. In the first half alone, UNT’s average starting position was the WSU 11-yard line — a disastrous stat that sealed the Cougars’ fate.
Quarterback Struggles: Jaxon Potter Benched
Third-year sophomore Jaxon Potter endured his worst performance as WSU’s starter:
- Completed 16 of 23 passes for 139 yards
- Threw 3 interceptions (two leading to touchdowns)
- Pulled at halftime
Redshirt freshman Julian Dugger replaced him but also fumbled. Later, senior QB Zevi Eckhaus entered, completing 7 of 10 passes for 72 yards in mop-up duty.
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| North Texas celebrates a touchdown against Washington State. |
North Texas Offense Shines
North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker took advantage of WSU’s mistakes, finishing:
- 24 of 29 passing, 211 yards, 4 TDs
- Connected with receivers Landon Sides and Brandon Young Jr.
- Running back Jayden Becks added multiple scores
Defense Falters Without Anthony Palano
WSU was without starting linebacker Anthony Palano, who didn’t suit up despite traveling with the team. His absence left a major gap in the middle, with walk-on Jack Ellison starting in his place. The Cougars’ defense struggled to contain UNT all night.
The Fallout from WSU's Blowout Loss
This blowout loss raises serious questions:
- Can WSU regroup before facing Washington in the Apple Cup?
- Will Jaxon Potter remain the starting QB after his 3-interception game?
- How does this affect WSU’s bowl chances after a 2-1 start?
The Apple Cup will be the Huskies’ first trip to Pullman in three years, adding extra pressure for Rogers and the Cougars.
Key Stats
| Stat | WSU Cougars | North Texas |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 10 | 59 |
| Turnovers | 5 | 0 |
| Passing Yards | 211 | 139 |
| Total Yards | 275 | 410 |
Cougars Unravel Ahead of Rivalry Week
The Washington State Cougars didn’t just lose — they unraveled in every phase of the game. With rivalry week looming, Rogers’ team faces a defining moment: regroup quickly or risk another devastating loss on an even bigger stage.
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