The Cougars “biggest catch” according to Rivals.com, Gabriel Marks has some lofty goals for his career at WSU.

“I want to be the best wide receiver in the country,” Marks said. “Hopefully I can do that there and maybe win some Belitnikoffs and just be one of the great wide receivers in the country while I’m there.”

Nonetheless, Marks is not all about personal achievements.

He truly believes this team can return to the Rose Bowl and he wants to help expedite that process.

“I just want to help bring Washington State back to prominence,” Marks said. “They went to the Rose Bowls and all that stuff. I think we can really do that there.”

Marks, who is the 13 rated wide receiver in the country, according to Rivals, said he is looking forward to playing for Head Coach Mike Leach, as he always grew up idolizing Leach’s Texas Tech teams.

Leach said Marks epitomizes what it means to be a football player and he has a knack for making big plays.

“Guy that really knows how to make plays and knows where the endzone is,” Leach said. “Has an incredible tendency to out-perform the other players around him even if they play the same position as him. Just a football player in the true sense of the word.”

The wide receiver was originally committed to SMU until December, when he re-opened his recruitment.

Marks said he was worried about the uncertainty surrounding Mustang head coach, June Jones, who was rumored to be the front-runner for the Arizona State head coaching position.

“I wasn’t feeling too confident in June Jones stability with the program,” Marks said. “I really liked Mike Leach, I always liked Texas Tech when I was younger. It’s a really good fit for me.”

Following his de-commitment from SMU, Leach got in contact with Marks and he came to Pullman on his official visit.

During his visit, he said he enjoyed his stay and decided to commit. Next year, Marks is anticipating playing in the slot.

“I’m going to be playing in the slot so I’m really just excited about getting in there and learning the playbooks and staying in the film room and putting that extra time that makes you great,” Marks said. “I’m just ready to get there and make a name for myself.”

Marks is looking forward to being an impact player right from the beginning, as he headlines the Cougars’ recruiting class this season.

He is hoping to score some touchdowns for WSU next season.

“I can come in and be a hard-working guy that can catch a lot of passes and hopefully get in the end zone a lot,” Marks said.