PULLMAN, Wash. — Washington State University football returns to conference play Saturday when the Cougars face Fresno State in their first true conference game since 2023.
The matchup marks a significant moment for a program that spent recent seasons navigating conference realignment. Conferences and regional rivalries are fundamental to what separates college football from other sports, and WSU fans are ready to embrace that return.
“It’s very exciting. I’m really excited for the new PAC 12. It’s going to be a great game, the boys are going to do awesome,” said Danielle Young, a WSU fan.
For WSU seniors Anthony Kaiser and Kai Bento, the return to consistent conference opponents is a welcome change. “Having consistent opponents again, like with the old PAC 12 it was always the same guys that made it more competitive. So it’s just more fun whereas the last couple years it was just random opponents here and there,” they said.
When asked which opponent they’re most excited about, Kaiser and Bento didn’t hesitate: “I’ll say Boise, I think so too, I’m excited for when they come.”
The enthusiasm extends beyond the field. Fans are optimistic about first-year coach Kirby Moore and the local ties he brings to the program. Tailgate lots outside Martin Stadium were already packed Friday as families prepared for gameday festivities coinciding with Family Weekend.
“I love the people, the traditions that we have built. I love the atmosphere, it’s just fun. I love being close to the stadium, I just love the whole thing,” Young said.
Saturday’s kickoff represents a new dawn for WSU athletics and the PAC-12.
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