Washington State has struggled in the Apple Cup. However, this is a different Washington State team whose strength is on defense led by Hercules Mata'afa. It doesn't take much to hold this Washington offense in check. A Washington offense that in my opinion is over rated. It will also help Washington State who needs a win here to get to the PAC 12 Championship game has an extra week to prepare.

Meanwhile Washington was lucky to get by Utah at home as a 17.5 point favorite. A Utah team that was playing without some of their best players. Washington's defense gave up 30 points in back to back games. Washington State's offense is completely one dimensional, but I expect they can score enough to keep them in this game.

Washington State under Mike Leach as a road dog in the Pac 12 is 14-7 ATS. You would think they would be at a disadvantage on the offensive and defensive line, but in adjusted yard rankings Washington State is better than Washington in both categories. As much as I mentioned Washington State being better this year. It also a fact that Washington is not as good as last year. They are averaging .5 yards less per play. Jake Browning has 18 TD's and 5 interceptions, but last year he had a 43/9 ratio and now he goes up against a Washington State defense that thrives on getting to the QB. Washington State's defense is allowing a 104 QB rating. A year ago they allowed 138 and 12 more passing TD's. Washington State must force turnovers and win the turnover battle if they'll win this game, but I see no reason why they should get beat by double digits.