Washington State Cougars Football: Breaking Down the Offense in 2011

I think at this point, we all know about the struggles up in Pullman.

But for the first time in several years, the Washington State Cougars showed that they were beginning to keep up in games last season.

Even in the Oregon game, they held their own for one half of football.

Here I will go through position by position and grade each unit of the offense.

From the quarterback to the offensive linemen, each unit is equally important in assuring a successful 2011 campaign.

Overall Offense: C+

A lot of fans don’t realized how improved this Cougars team is compared to the teams a few seasons ago.

With seven returning starters, including the leading passer and receiver, this offense should be much improved in 2011.

Look for the Cougs to have college football fans paying attention once again.

Quarterback: B

Jeff Tuel is one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the Pac-12, maybe even the country.

Yes, he plays on one of the worst teams in any BCS conference.

But Tuel is a solid player who will have a solid junior season. Look for Tuel to put up 25 TDs and reduce his interceptions to 7 or 8.

Also, don’t be surprised if he rushes for close to 500 yards this year.

Running Backs: C-

The running game is definitely an area the Cougars are going to need to work on.

Redshirt freshman Ricky Galvin is battling with last year’s backup Logwone Mitz for the starting spot.

Carl Winston also will try to get his reps with the first team this summer.

Washington State definitely lacks the talent at the running back position that rest of the conference seems loaded at.

Wide Receivers and Tight Ends: B

After a sensational freshman season, Marquess Wilson looks to embark on an even more impressive sophomore campaign.

The Tuel-Wilson combo is one of the better quarterback to wide receiver relationships in the entire Pac-12.

Also, expect Jared Karstetter to explode in his last year in Pullman.

Offensive Line: C-

Three starters on the line return, but the Cougars do have to replace their starting center from last season.

With four starting seniors, WSU has one of the oldest starting line units in the country.

If the line can give Tuel time in the pocket, Wilson and Karstetter will get open and the offense might finally have some consistency.