Utah State Aggies vs Washington State Cougars Picks and Predictions December 22nd 2025

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Utah State Aggies vs Washington State Cougars Betting Preview

The Utah State Aggies (6-6) face the Washington State Cougars (6-6) in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl at Albertsons Stadium in Boise. Both teams look to finish the season strong before joining forces in the reconfigured Pac-12.

Line Movement and Odds

Utah State opened as a slight favorite, with the line reflecting confidence in their offensive balance. Current market:

  • Utah State Spread: -3.0 (-113)
  • Washington State Spread: +3.0 (-106)
  • Utah State MoneyLine: -159
  • Washington State MoneyLine: +132
  • Total: 52.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Washington State Outlook

The Cougars closed the regular season with a 32-8 win over Oregon State, powered by Zevi Eckhaus at quarterback and a defense that ranks top-15 nationally in sacks. Their balanced attack (2,362 passing yards, 1,428 rushing yards) and special teams reliability with kicker Jack Stevens provide stability. Defensive end Isaac Terrell leads with seven sacks, while safety Matthew Durrance anchors the secondary.

Utah State Outlook

Utah State narrowly lost 25-24 to Boise State in their finale. Quarterback Bryson Barnes has been the catalyst, throwing for 2,687 yards and 18 touchdowns while rushing for 733 yards and nine scores. Defensively, Noah Avinger and John Miller lead a unit that ranks 11th nationally in turnovers forced. Their rushing attack (2,063 yards) and ability to move the chains (255 first downs, 37th nationally) highlight offensive efficiency.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The game hinges on Utah State’s ability to control tempo with Barnes’ dual-threat playmaking, while Washington State must lean on defensive pressure and Eckhaus’ efficiency to stay competitive. If Utah State limits turnovers, their offensive balance could tilt the game in their favor.

Injuries / Availability

Washington State: Multiple starters listed as questionable, including OL Brock Dieu and RB Leo Pulalasi.

Utah State: Key absences include DT Naki Fahina and WR Corey Thompson Jr., with several others questionable.

Environment

Albertsons Stadium’s Blue Turf provides a familiar setting for Utah State, making their sixth appearance in the Potato Bowl. Washington State enters with momentum after a dominant win, while Utah State looks to rebound from a narrow loss.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Washington State 28, Utah State 24

  • Washington State +3.0 → Best Bet. Their ATS record as underdogs (5-0 in 2025) makes them a strong cover candidate.
  • Over 52.5 → Total play. Both teams’ offensive averages point toward a combined score above the line.

Washington State’s defense and balanced offense should carry them to a narrow upset win, while Utah State’s playmaking keeps the game competitive. Expect a high-scoring contest trending over the total.

Handicappers and Service Plays

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