2016 Holiday Bowl

So what will be the first point of reference for Washington State’s 2016 football season?

During a tense, emotional postgame press conference – they always are when a team loses its final game – Washington State coach acknowledged that the outside noise might have gotten through and led his players astray.

For the first time since it became an issue, Washington State quarterback Luke Falk himself was asked whether or not he will be returning next season or entering the upcoming NFL draft. His answer? Inconclusive.

Player of the game, as well as offensive and defensive MVPs from Minnesota’s 17-12 win over Washington State in the Holiday Bowl on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016 in San Diego.

Key moments from Washington State’s 17-12 Holiday Bowl defeat to Minnesota on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016 in San Diego.

And to think Minnesota was the team that some folks worried would not show up for the Holiday Bowl. The Washington State Cougars were present, but played like they were the ones boycotting, declining to muster even an anemic offense until the final, unimpactful seconds of their 17-12 loss in the Holiday Bowl.

There is a certain segment of football fans who claim to love the game, but only if there is a national championship at stake.

Conflicting statements throughout Monday leave Luke Falk’s status at Washington State beyond Tuesday’s Holiday Bowl the same as when they day began: uncertain.

WSU coach Mike Leach says he still is not paying attention to the boycott by Minnesota football players.