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Washington State (6-6) at Utah State (6-6)
- When: Dec 22 2025, 2:00 PM
- Where: Albertsons Stadium, Boise, ID
- Where to watch: ESPN
- Last Meeting: Washington State 49-28, November 9th, 2024
Washington State vs Utah State Preview & Prediction
Spread: Washington State -1.0
Moneyline: Washington State (-115)
Total: 49.0
Washington State Cougars Breakdown
Washington State enters the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl in the middle of change but not chaos. The Cougars finished the regular season at 6-6 and now look to close the year strong despite a coaching shuffle that will reshape the program moving forward. With an interim staff handling bowl duties, the focus has been simple: play fast, play loose, and finish the season with momentum.
The Cougars come into this matchup as slight one point favorites, and that edge is built on familiarity and recent success against Utah State. Washington State has handled this opponent well in recent seasons and closed the regular season with a convincing win that showcased their defensive intensity.
Quarterback Zevi Eckhaus continues to be the steady hand for this offense. He has taken control of the job down the stretch and gives the Cougars a reliable presence under center. While the passing numbers are modest, Washington State leans on efficiency and field position rather than explosive volume.
Defensively, the Cougars bring pressure from multiple angles. Their front has been effective at creating negative plays, and that will be critical against a Utah State offense that relies heavily on quarterback mobility. Energy has reportedly remained high in practice, suggesting Washington State is locked in despite the unusual circumstances.
Utah State Aggies Breakdown
Utah State also arrives at 6-6, but the path here felt very different. The Aggies had opportunities to finish stronger and let a few close games slip away late. Their final regular season loss was another example, surrendering a second half lead in a narrow defeat.
The Aggies are built around their quarterback. Bryson Barnes is the engine of the offense, threatening defenses both through the air and on the ground. His dual threat style forces opponents to defend every blade of grass, but it also invites physical play and extended drives.
Utah State’s defense has some proven playmakers, particularly in the secondary and at linebacker. They can create turnovers and disrupt rhythm, which gives them a chance to hang around in tight games. The challenge is consistency, especially in bowl settings where they have struggled historically on this field.
Motivation should not be an issue. This game marks a preview of a future conference rivalry, and Utah State would love to make a statement before the move becomes official.
Betting Outlook and Prediction
This projects as a competitive and physical bowl game where field position and late execution decide the outcome. Utah State’s quarterback gives them a puncher’s chance, but Washington State’s defensive pressure and recent momentum provide a slight edge. Expect a back and forth contest that stays close throughout.
Final Score: Washington State 27, Utah State 23
Lean: Washington State -1.0
Total: Over 49.0
- NCAA Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
