Washington State Will Host Arizona on September 26
The Cougars return to Gesa Field to face the Wildcats in a high-stakes football matchup this coming Friday.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Football
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Washington State University will host the University of Arizona at Gesa Field in Pullman on September 26, 2026. This matchup comes as both teams enter the contest following decisive victories in their most recent outings.
Why it matters
The game marks a critical point for both programs as they look to build momentum during the early portion of the 2026 season. Arizona enters the week highlighted by record-setting performances, while Washington State looks to leverage home-field advantage.
Noah Fifita leads Arizona with 10,017 career passing yards and 80 touchdowns, setting new school records. In their last outing, Fifita completed 31 of 34 passes for 325 yards, while teammate Caleb Smith contributed an 89-yard punt return touchdown.
The players
Noah Fifita
The Arizona quarterback recently became the university leader in career passing yards and passing touchdowns.
Brent Brennan
The head coach of the Arizona football program has secured a contract extension to remain with the university through 2030.
Caleb Smith
An Arizona player who recorded an 89-yard punt return touchdown in the team's most recent game against Northern Illinois.
Nick Foles
A former Arizona quarterback who previously held the school records for career passing yards and touchdowns.
The details
Arizona arrives in Pullman following a 42-17 win over Northern Illinois, a game where the team overcame a 10-point deficit. Washington State holds momentum of its own after securing a 48-7 victory against Duquesne on September 13.
Timeline
2011: Nick Foles set the previous Arizona passing record.
2023: Arizona defeated Washington State 44-6 in Pullman.
September 12, 2026: Arizona defeated Northern Illinois 42-17.
September 13, 2026: Washington State defeated Duquesne 48-7.
September 26, 2026: Washington State will host Arizona at Gesa Field.
Season Trajectory
The 2026 matchup follows the 2023 Arizona vs. Washington State game, where the Wildcats previously secured a 44-6 road win. This game will test whether Washington State can reverse that outcome to improve its standing in the current season.
Noah Fifita enters the game with record-setting accuracy after completing 31 of 34 passes in his last outing. The result will impact the divisional standings as both teams vie for position during the 2026 campaign.
The takeaway
The upcoming game highlights the impact of veteran quarterback play on current season trajectories. Fans should watch for how the Washington State defense attempts to contain the record-breaking passing efficiency of the Arizona offense.
Further reading
For more on the team's season performance, visit the Football section.
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