Washington State and Washington clash in odd Apple Cup at Lumen Field

The upcoming Apple Cup between Washington State and Washington is set to take place at Lumen Field in Seattle on September 16, 2023, at 3:30 p.m. ET. This game is particularly notable as it represents the first non-conference matchup in the rivalry since 1961, a change prompted by the recent collapse of the Pac-12 conference. The game will be played at a neutral site, a departure from the traditional campus venues, and is part of a series that is scheduled to continue through 2028. Washington leads the series with a record of 76-33-6 and has won nine of the last ten encounters, including a narrow victory last year. Both teams enter the game with strong performances in their opening matches, with Washington State scoring 70 points in their opener and Washington's defense yet to allow a touchdown this season. The matchup is expected to be competitive, especially with standout players like Washington State's quarterback John Mateer, who has shown impressive rushing and passing abilities. Despite the excitement surrounding the game, there is significant debate about the future of the Apple Cup. The rivalry's continuation is uncertain, particularly due to the acrimony expressed by Washington State fans regarding the changes in the series format. The potential for the rivalry to diminish before its scheduled end in 2028 raises concerns among supporters of both teams. As the teams prepare to clash, the implications of this game extend beyond the scoreboard, reflecting the shifting landscape of college football and the impact of conference realignments on traditional rivalries.