The Washington State Cougars enter the Holiday Bowl with an 8-4 record, reflecting a season of growth under head coach Jake Dickert. The Cougars have showcased a balanced offensive attack and a resilient defense, aiming to conclude their season with a signature win against a formidable Syracuse team. Offensively, Washington State has been effective, averaging 36.8 points per game. Quarterback John Mateer has been the linchpin of the offense, passing for 3,139 yards and 29 touchdowns, while also contributing 826 rushing yards and 15 scores. Mateer’s dual-threat capability adds a dynamic element, challenging defenses to account for both his arm and legs. His leadership and playmaking abilities have been pivotal in orchestrating the Cougars’ offense. The ground game is bolstered by running back Wayshawn Parker, who has rushed for 595 yards. Parker’s combination of speed and power makes him a consistent threat, capable of breaking long runs and grinding out tough yards. His performance has been instrumental in maintaining offensive balance and sustaining drives. Wide receiver Kyle Williams has been a standout in the receiving corps, leading the team with 686 receiving yards. Williams’ ability to stretch the field and make contested catches provides a reliable target for Mateer, opening up the offense and creating opportunities for big plays. Complementing Williams is wide receiver Kris Hutson, who has contributed significantly with 542 receiving yards, adding depth to the receiving unit. The offensive line has shown improvement throughout the season, providing solid protection for John Mateer and creating running lanes for Wayshawn Parker. While there have been moments of inconsistency, the unit has performed admirably against some of the toughest defensive lines in the Pac-12. Their ability to maintain control at the line of scrimmage will be crucial in creating opportunities for Washington State’s dynamic offensive playmakers in the Holiday Bowl. Defensively, the Cougars have allowed 28.1 points per game, with their performance marked by moments of brilliance and some struggles, particularly against high-scoring offenses . Linebacker Devin Richardson has been the cornerstone of the defense, leading the team with 92 tackles and providing leadership on and off the field. Richardson’s ability to diagnose plays and deliver timely stops has been instrumental in Washington State’s defensive efforts. The defensive line, anchored by Brennan Jackson, has been effective in generating pressure, recording 29 sacks on the season. Jackson’s combination of strength and quickness has made him a disruptive force in the trenches, often forcing quarterbacks into hurried throws. However, consistency in containing mobile quarterbacks has been a challenge, something the Cougars must address against Syracuse’s Kyle McCord. The secondary, led by safety Jaden Hicks, has been opportunistic, recording multiple interceptions and limiting big plays through the air. Hicks’ ability to read quarterbacks and disrupt passing lanes has been critical in high-stakes moments. However, the unit has occasionally struggled against elite passing attacks, making its performance against Syracuse’s prolific aerial game a key storyline in the Holiday Bowl. Special teams have been a strong point for Washington State. Kicker Dean Janikowski has converted 83% of his field goal attempts, demonstrating reliability in clutch situations. Punter Nick Haberer has been effective at flipping field position, often pinning opponents deep in their own territory. The return game, led by Lincoln Victor, adds an explosive element, with Victor occasionally breaking long returns that provide a spark for the Cougars. As Washington State prepares for the Holiday Bowl, the focus will be on executing a balanced offensive attack while tightening up defensively. Establishing the run with Wayshawn Parker will be key, as it sets up play-action opportunities for John Mateer to exploit Syracuse’s secondary. On defense, the Cougars aim to pressure McCord and limit big plays from the Orange’s dynamic receiving corps. This game represents a significant opportunity for Washington State to cap their season with a statement win and gain momentum heading into the offseason. A victory in the Holiday Bowl would not only highlight the program’s growth under Jake Dickert but also serve as a springboard for continued success in the competitive Pac-12. With their balanced offense, improving defense, and reliable special teams, the Cougars are well-positioned to compete fiercely against Syracuse and deliver a strong performance in San Diego.