Grading the cougars

Passing offense B-

The Cougars moved the ball through the air. They still need to shore up the protection.

Rushing offense C

The first drive was B+ material, but after that the holes dried up. Backs ran hard all night.

Passing defense C

If you forget the long TD the Cardinal air attack sputtered, with less than 50 percent completions.

Rushing defense C+

The Cougars held Gerhart to less than 100 yards until he broke free on a long run late.

Special teams D-

The killer kickoff return, a big punt return and missing a short field goal cost WSU.

Coaching C-

The team played harder than last, year other than the Apple Cup. But a loss is a loss.