Arizona Wildcats quarterback Noah Fifita has completed 81.1% of his passes through the first three games of the season, placing him third in the FBS for accuracy and setting a new benchmark for Arizona quarterbacks this century. This sharp form will be put to the test on Saturday when the Wildcats travel to Pullman, Washington, to face Washington State at Martin Stadium.
Arizona’s visit to Pullman comes just two weeks after a trip to Provo, Utah, and presents another early road challenge for the Wildcats. The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on CBS, with streaming options available on CBSSports.com, the CBS Sports App, and Paramount+ Premium. Arizona enters as a 10.5-point favorite despite the long journey and the reputation of Washington State’s strong home performances.
Washington State has claimed victories in six of its last seven games at Martin Stadium, including a current four-game home winning streak where they have outscored opponents by an average of 27.7 points per game. The Cougars proved they could compete in their season opener, going toe-to-toe with rival Washington, which suggests this won’t be an easy contest despite Arizona’s favored status.
Arizona’s offense is led by Fifita, who has thrown for 834 yards, seven touchdowns, and just one interception so far. His connection with receivers Tre Spivey and Gio Richardson has been effective, with each racking up at least 12 receptions. Maintaining this passing efficiency will be critical for the Wildcats to overcome the Cougars’ home field advantage.
Washington State, meanwhile, has struggled to find rhythm through the air, averaging just 134.3 passing yards per game—a figure that ranks 132nd nationally. The Cougars’ running game looks unlikely to provide much relief against Arizona’s defense, which allows only 75.7 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Caden Pinnick faces pressure to improve his passing output if Washington State hopes to keep pace.
Arizona’s run defense is well positioned to stifle the Cougars’ ground attack, making it tough for Washington State to control the clock or open up passing lanes. This imbalance could force the Cougars into a one-dimensional offense, which plays into the Wildcats’ strengths.
The game revives a former Pac-12 rivalry, adding an extra layer of interest as both teams seek to establish momentum early in the season. Arizona’s solid start to the year and statistical advantages on both sides of the ball give them the edge, but Washington State’s home success and physical style ensure the match will remain competitive.
Saturday’s game will also be a test of endurance and travel resilience for Arizona, coming off a previous long road trip. The Wildcats’ ability to maintain focus and execute on the road will be closely watched by analysts as they navigate this Big 12 schedule filled with demanding opponents.
With Arizona favored by double digits, the Wildcats are expected to control the game, but Washington State’s home crowd and recent form inject uncertainty into what might otherwise be a straightforward contest. The latest odds and team stats suggest the Wildcats are in a position to extend their strong start, provided Fifita continues his high level of play under pressure.
The kickoff at Martin Stadium is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, September 26, with live coverage on CBS and streaming through CBS Sports platforms.
According to CBS.
