The Apple Cup is BACK, and it’s kicking off the 2026 season with a bang! Sunday marks the 118th clash between the Washington State Cougars and our own Washington Huskies, and you know Husky Stadium in Seattle is going to be absolutely electric. This isn’t just any game; it’s the rivalry, opening the season for both teams.
History, New Conferences, and Old Rivalries
Our Huskies hold a massive lead in the all-time series, sitting pretty at 77-34-6. But let’s not forget what happened two years ago. The last time the Huskies hosted, the Cougars pulled off a shocker, picking up the win right here on our turf. That’s gotta sting, and you know our guys are looking to settle that score! The Huskies are rolling in as the 16th-ranked team, coming off that national title game appearance in 2023. They’ve gone 15-11 since making the jump to the Big Ten. Meanwhile, the Cougars are back in a new-look Pac-12 after two years as an independent, where they also went 15-11. New conferences, same old rivalry fire. Does that shift change anything for this bitter contest? We’re about to find out!
The Numbers and Demond Williams’ Return
Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET, and the atmosphere in Husky Stadium will be insane. Our Huskies are coming in as huge 23.5-point favorites in the latest odds, with the over/under set at 51.5 points. Now, get this: the SportsLine Projection Model, which has been upgraded for 2026 and is on a solid 32-19 run on top-rated CFB money-line picks since 2024, is leaning *Under* on that 51.5 total. Why? Four of the last seven meetings between these rivals have totaled 45 points or less. Though, weirdly, two others finished over 80 points. Talk about unpredictable! The big news for the Huskies is the return of starting quarterback Demond Williams. Remember what he did to the Cougars last year? He went 16-of-19 for 288 yards and four touchdowns in a blowout win. That kind of performance is what you love to see, and he’s back to lead the charge. The Cougars are turning their offensive keys over, but can they stop Williams?
This Apple Cup is going to be pure, unadulterated rivalry football. With the model predicting a lower-scoring game, are we in for a defensive slugfest, or will Demond Williams light up the scoreboard again? Either way, you know our Huskies are ready to reclaim bragging rights right here in the Emerald City. Bring on Sunday!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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