SPOKANE, Wash. — There was excitement in Spokane as the Apple Cup unfolded Saturday.
No-Li’s packed house showed that although this year’s game is looking different from past years, the rivalry between Washington State and University of Washington is still strong.
“It’s just such a special rivalry,” said WSU alumni Tyler Polluck.
Fans have historically been decked out in gloves and hats for this game. This year, it was watched in shorts and sandals. Cougs fans said that’s not such a bad thing.
“I am a fan of it being now versus the end,” Said WSU alumni Abraham Horieh. “We normally play better in this season and Apple Cup in the winter is freezing.”
More than just the date changed for this year’s Apple Cup. Although UW’s decision to leave the Pac-12 changed college football, Cougar fans said this only made them want this win even more.
“We are in totally different divisions. This is a non-conference game now, but the rivalry will always be there,” Polluck said.
On the other side of town, the vibes at Brickwest were just as high, and the spirit of a good-natured competition remained strong.
“Any other day of the year, we are all going to be on the same page. We are going to be friends after this no matter what, but it is always good to compete against your friends,” said Seth Hall, a UW fan.
Despite all the changes from last year’s Apple Cup, Cougs said this year’s game and victory remains one of the most anticipated of the year.
“The rivalry and the comradery of the game is still around,” Polluck said. “The competition is still there.”
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