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Coug's Claw Past Spartans in Overtime Thriller

The Washington State Cougars and the San Jose State Spartans battled through a back-and-forth game, featuring key plays that led to a dramatic overtime finish. The Cougars secured victory in the 9th overtime period, concluding the game with the highest-scoring overtime game in FBS history.

A Tale of Two Halves

The first half was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to find an offensive rhythm. San Jose State took an early 3-0 lead on a field goal, but the Cougars responded with a touchdown just before halftime to take a 7-3 lead into the break.

The second half was a different story, with both teams trading blows. The Spartans tied the game at 10-10 with a touchdown in the third quarter, but the Cougars answered with a field goal to retake the lead. San Jose State drove down the field and scored a touchdown with just over a minute remaining to tie the game at 17-17, sending the game into overtime.

Overtime Extravaganza

The first eight overtime periods were a stalemate, with both teams exchanging field goals. It was not until the 9th overtime period that the Cougars broke the deadlock. WSU running back Nakia Watson powered through the line for a 1-yard touchdown. The Spartans failed to respond, giving the Cougars a heart-stopping victory, the longest overtime game in FBS history.

Quotes from the Game:

Washington State head coach Jake Dickert, "This team has a lot of heart and a never-say-die attitude. We played our hearts out and found a way to win in the end. I couldn't be more proud of our guys."

San Jose State head coach Brent Brennan, "We gave it everything we had but it just wasn't enough in the end. I'm proud of our team for fighting hard. We will learn from this and come back stronger next season."

Key Stats:

• Washington State outgained San Jose State in total offense, 429 yards to 347 yards.


• Spartans' quarterback Nick Starkel threw for 306 yards and two touchdowns, while Cougars' quarterback Cameron Ward passed for 252 yards and one touchdown.


• Nakia Watson rushed for 152 yards and the game-winning touchdown.


• The game featured a total of 14 overtimes, the most in FBS history.

Significance and Aftermath:

The win improves Washington State's record to 7-5 (5-4 Pac-12), securing their bowl eligibility. The Cougars will conclude their regular season at home against rival Washington in the Apple Cup rivalry game.

San Jose State finishes their season with a disappointing 6-7 (4-4 Mountain West) record, falling short of a bowl appearance. The Spartans will look to regroup and return stronger next season.