On Saturday, Sept. 23, WSU and Oregon State convened for their historic 108th encounter, marking a significant milestone in their rivalry. This matchup was characterized by several noteworthy firsts: the first time both teams were ranked and undefeated (since 1989) and the first time with a combined 6-0 record. The biggest first is WSU and OSU meeting up as the only teams left in the Pac-12, or shall we say the Pac-2. 

Both WSU and OSU can commiserate in the uncertainty of the team’s future. However, the Cougs can take solace in the fact that they do not need to share in the lamentation of a defeat. How does this WSU win against our Pac-2 counterpart affect our future home?  

There are three potential options for WSU: join the Mountain West Conference, follow everyone else to the Big 12 and Big 10 conference or rebuild the Pac-12 from the ground up.

Boise State University, from the MWC, receives a budget of $26.1 million in funding, WSU receives $84 million and Big 12 team Colorado State receives $96 million, according to the Seattle Times. 

In a dream scenario, WSU would join the Big 10 or Big 12 because more money means more TV deals, more exceptional athletes, and more amenities: WSU could find this princess treatment in the Big 10 or Big 12 conference. 

WSU put up impressive statistics against Oregon State with 528 total yards and 5 TDs. Their theme continues with strong chemistry between Ward and his receivers, with 404 passing yards. 

This resounding success against Pac-12 contender OSU underscores WSU’s competitive edge and suggests they can hold their own against Big 12 teams. 

This is not the first time WSU has proven their talent; back in week two WSU beat Big 10 West leader Wisconsin.

WSU is going into its week five bye undefeated and proving their dominance having destroyed Colorado State from the MWC and Northern Colorado from the Big Sky, while also prevailing against Power 5 schools. 

Even though WSU has showcased its talent, the Big 10 and Big 12 have shown little interest in taking on other Pac-12 teams whereas the Mountain West conference has. Could Washington State potentially elevate the Mountain West into a more well-respected conference?

There is still a possibility of rebuilding the Pac-12 and bringing in schools from the top of the MWC to replace the teams who have left. This way WSU and OSU will not lose the assets from the Pac-12 and will be able to continue on their merry way with funding and strong athletes in their back pockets.

 While it is premature to predict the exact outcome, the coming weeks will undoubtedly reveal the course of action that these schools, and the larger collegiate sports landscape, will undertake.