Washington State Scored Two Punt Return Touchdowns
Jaylen Thomas and Tank Hawkins led the Cougars to a 48-7 victory over Duquesne in Pullman.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Football
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Washington State defeated Duquesne 48-7 behind a historic performance from its special teams unit. Jaylen Thomas and Tank Hawkins each recorded punt return touchdowns during the game.
Why it matters
The special teams unit needed a major boost following poor performances against Washington and Kansas State. Coaching staff prioritized a turnaround to improve the team's overall field position and scoring efficiency.
Jaylen Thomas returned a punt 47 yards for a score, while Tank Hawkins added a 65-yard return touchdown. Washington State secured the 48-7 win despite ongoing struggles from kicker Jack Stevens, who is 1-for-5 on field goals this season.
The players
Jaylen Thomas
He is a Washington State football player who returned a punt 47 yards for a touchdown against Duquesne.
Tank Hawkins
He is a Washington State football player who scored on a 65-yard punt return.
Jack Stevens
He serves as the Washington State kicker and is currently facing scrutiny after missing several field goals this season.
Tony Freeman
He is a Washington State football player who will miss the remainder of the season due to injury.
Miguel Arenas
He is a Washington State football player who may be in line to take over placekicking duties.
The details
The game marked the first instance of Washington State recording two punt return touchdowns in a single contest since 1973. While the return game flourished, kicker Jack Stevens struggled, missing three consecutive field goal attempts and his first career extra point.
Timeline
Washington State played Duquesne on September 19, 2026.
The program last scored two punt return touchdowns in 1973.
Jack Stevens made 16 of 19 field goals last season.
Washington State hosts Arizona next week.
Season Trajectory
This dominant performance provides a much-needed morale boost for the special teams unit as the team prepares to host Arizona. The win helps stabilize the Cougars as they enter the next phase of the conference schedule following early-season struggles.
Kicker Jack Stevens' current 1-for-5 accuracy significantly limits the team's ability to capitalize on drives ending in the red zone. Coaching staff are now evaluating whether to move forward with Miguel Arenas as the primary kicker for upcoming games.
The takeaway
Reliable special teams play is essential for maintaining momentum throughout a competitive college football season. The coaching staff must resolve the instability at placekicker to avoid leaving critical points off the scoreboard in future matchups.
What happens next
Washington State is scheduled to host Arizona next week.
Further reading
For more updates on the Cougars, visit the Football section.
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