Football rivalries in the Pacific Northwest highlight the disparities following conference realignment
The Pac-12 conference has undergone significant changes in recent times, with some of its prominent members departing and new ones joining. Amidst this tumultuous period, the rivalries between Oregon State and Washington State, and Oregon State and Oregon, continue to hold significance.
John Mateer, the quarterback, has transferred from Washington State to Oklahoma, marking a change in the Cougars' roster. Meanwhile, Washington State's rival, Oregon, coach Dan Lanning, has stated that the rivalry game still holds meaning, despite the changes in the conference.
In the midst of this transition, the identity of the new head coach for Washington State University for the 2022/23 season remains undisclosed. However, the Cougars fared well last season, securing an 8-5 record and a spot in the Holiday Bowl. Jimmy Rogers, who led the South Dakota State Jackrabbits to a national title in 2023, has taken over the reins at Washington State, replacing the departed Jake Dickert.
Oregon State, on the other hand, has been struggling. They lost coach Jonathan Smith to Michigan State ahead of the 2024 season, with Trent Bray stepping up as the new coach. Oregon State has been on a losing streak, with a 0-3 record this season and nine losses in ten games dating back to last season.
In a bid to maintain their competitive edge, Oregon State and Washington State struck a temporary deal to play in the Mountain West last season and are operating as independents this season. The two teams will face each other twice this season, with the first match scheduled for an unspecified date.
The Apple Cup, the traditional game between Washington and Washington State, is set to take place on Saturday. However, the Oregon-Oregon State rivalry game will not be played next year, potentially being revived in 2027. This is due to conference alignment and player movement, as both Oregon and USC, UCLA, Washington, and Oregon have left the Pac-12.
Despite the challenges, both coaches remain optimistic about the future. Rogers is focused on rebuilding the Washington State program, stating that he doesn't use lack of resources as an excuse. Bray, meanwhile, sees the Oregon-Oregon State game as a growth opportunity for his players, despite it not being what it used to be.
Looking ahead, the Pac-12 is expected to be revived next season with new members Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Utah State, Colorado State, Texas State, and Gonzaga (as a non-football member). The conference landscape may have changed, but the spirit of competition and rivalry remains alive in the Pacific Northwest.
