In a surprising twist, the Washington State Cougars lead the Oregon State Beavers at the half, 14-0. Washington State has used a dominant defense to slow Jacquizz Rodgers and the Beavs in the first half, holding them scoreless thus far. Sophomore quarterback Jeff Tuel left the game late in the second quarter with an apparent concussion. At the time, Tuel was looking impressive for the Cougs, throwing for 91 yards and rushing for 66.
Rodgers, the Beavers' biggest weapon, rushed for 57 yards on 11 carries. Quarterback Ryan Katz was largely ineffective, throwing only 62 yards and an interception. Katz was pulled late in the first half, giving way to redshirt freshman Cody Vaz. Rodgers also added 27 yards in the passing game.
The Cougs got touchdowns from both James Montgomery and Logwone Mitz, both from one-yard out. Daniel Blackledge added four catches for 76 yards for the Cougs in the first half to lead all receivers. If Tuel was unable to pass his concussion test, it's up to Marshall Lobbestael in the second half for Washington State