Forecasting Improved Performance in WSU's Secondary Unit, Suggested by Safety Players' Relationships
The safety trio of Matt Durrance, Tucker Large, and Cale Reeder is poised to make a significant impact on Washington State's football team for the 2021 season. All three players have shown impressive performances in their collegiate careers, particularly during their time at South Dakota State University.
Matt Durrance, a strong safety, has played in 40 career games, recording 97 tackles, 2 tackles for loss (TFL), 4 interceptions, and 8 pass breakups. In the 2023 season alone, he made 63 tackles, 2 TFL, 3 interceptions, 4 pass breakups, and a fumble recovery over 15 games. Durrance was an important part of South Dakota State's FCS national championship teams in 2022 and 2023 and is regarded as a top newcomer and key contributor to Washington State's defense.
Tucker Large also transferred from South Dakota State, where he was a key player on the same championship teams. Large has earned recognition such as being named to the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 list, signaling his NFL potential and high level of collegiate play.
Cale Reeder's college career performance is less documented in the provided sources, but his experience in championship-level competition is undeniable.
Together, the two transferees from South Dakota State bring proven success, experience in championship-level competition, and impressive individual stats that suggest they can significantly improve Washington State's secondary. Their experience in high-pressure games and proven ability to generate turnovers (interceptions, pass breakups) should help fortify the defensive backfield for the Cougars.
The trio started their careers together at South Dakota State in 2021 and have never failed to reach the FCS semifinals. They are close friends and are expected to be at each other's weddings. Tucker Large and Cale Reeder have been praised for their vocal leadership in the locker room.
Washington State coach Jimmy Rogers prioritizes rest over reps for Large and Reeder due to their extensive experience. The trio is expected to face challenging opponents such as Washington, Ole Miss, and Virginia this fall.
The safety position has been a weakness for Washington State in recent years, but the addition of Durrance, Large, and Reeder could significantly improve the team's secondary. Matt Durrance, in particular, aims to win during his final year of college football at the FBS level. Reeder picked off a pair of passes and forced two fumbles in his last full season of action.
With the arrival of this talented trio, Washington State fans are hopeful for a stronger defensive showing in the upcoming season.
Seattle's major sports teams, the Seahawks and Mariners, may have some competition for local fans' attention, as Washington State's football team in Pullman gears up for the 2021 season. The safety trio of Matt Durrance, Tucker Large, and Cale Reeder, who have collectively proven their skills in American-football competition at the NCAA level, are anticipated to strengthen the Cougars' defensive backfield. Durrance and Large, formerly of South Dakota State University, bring experience from championship-level teams, impressive individual statistics, and a knack for generating turnovers to Washington State. Reeder, who's statistics are less documented but boasts a strong background in championship football, completes this formidable trio. In the face of tough competitors such as Washington, Ole Miss, and Virginia, the Cougars are poised to put up a fierce fight, thanks to the arrival of these experienced newcomers. Washington State fans eagerly await a stronger defensive showing in the upcoming season, in what promises to be a thrilling year of American-football in Washington state.
