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Washington State defense nearly had another shutout in big win over Nevada

Washington State Cougars running back James Williams (32) hurdles Nevada Wolf Pack defensive back Asauni Rufus (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, at Martin Stadium in Pullman. (Tyler Tjomsland / The Spokesman-Review)
Washington State Cougars running back James Williams (32) hurdles Nevada Wolf Pack defensive back Asauni Rufus (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, at Martin Stadium in Pullman. (Tyler Tjomsland / The Spokesman-Review)
By Ryan Collingwood ryanc@spokesman.com(509) 459-5473

PULLMAN – Not since 1981 had Washington State’s defense posted multiple shutouts in the same season.

If not for Nevada running back Malik Broady’s 3-yard touchown run in garbage time – WSU led 45-0 with two minutes left – it would have happened on Saturday.

WSU has posted 11 shutouts between 1981 and this season’s opener against Montana State.

Close call

Washington State just missed notching its second shutout of the season in Saturday’s 45-7 win over Nevada. The last time the Cougars shut out two opponents in the same season was 1981. Here are the shutouts in that span.

  • 2017 vs. Montana State (31-0)
  • 2013 vs. Idaho (42-0)
  • 2003 vs. Idaho (25-0)
  • 1999 vs. UL-Lafayette (44-0)
  • 1997 vs Boise State (58-0)
  • 1994 vs. UCLA (21-0)
  • 1993 vs. Pacific (12-0)
  • 1985 vs. Oregon State (34-0)
  • 1981 vs. Pacific (31-0)
  • 1981 vs. Oregon State (23-0)
  • 1981 vs. Cal (19-0)