The 2026 Washington State Cougars may be one of the most overlooked teams in college football. With Kirby Moore entering his first season as head coach, Washington State football is generating major buzz thanks to an elite defensive unit, a deep roster, and a schedule that could immediately launch the Cougars into the national conversation.

On this episode of the Palouse Playbook Podcast powered by Up West Sports, the crew breaks down why WSU could realistically win 8+ games in 2026 and potentially compete near the top of the new Pac-12. The discussion centers around a defense many believe could become one of the best in the conference — and maybe even nationally ranked.

The show also dives into Washington State’s brutal non-conference schedule featuring Arizona, Kansas State, and Washington, and explains why winning two of those games could completely change the perception of the Cougars across college football.

Players discussed include Paul Hutson III (P3), Jeremiah Bernard, Keith Brown, Nyland Brown, Jack Peterson, Isaiah Hung, and others expected to make major impacts for WSU football this season. The crew also compares this year’s roster build and defensive identity to recent successful Group of Five and Pac-12 contenders.

Topics include:

• Washington State football 2026 expectations
• Kirby Moore’s first season at WSU
• Can the Cougars reach 8 wins?
• Elite WSU defense discussion
• Pac-12 football expansion and future
• Washington State vs Washington rivalry
• WSU quarterback battle
• Paul Hutson III breakout expectations
• College Football Playoff path for Washington State
• Why the Cougars are being underestimated nationally

If you believe the Cougars are ready to shock college football in 2026, this episode is for you.