PULLMAN, Wash. — The Washington State Cougars are closing in on naming the team's starting quarterback heading into the season.
Head Coach Jake Dickert announced today that Saturday night's scrimmage will be the final audition for John Mateer and Zevi Eckhaus to win the starting job. The Cougar starter will be named August 18 and will be announced to the public the following day.
Mateer looked strong in Saturday's first scrimmage of fall camp and did not turn the ball over, while Eckhaus threw an early interception to Stephen Hall before settling in and putting the ball in the end zone three times.
"John did a good job commanding the offense and didn't have a takeaway. I thought he did a good job with his feet at times in a non live situation and delivering the ball with accuracy. I thought Zevi did a good job battling back, we just have to get him out of every practice, he has one throw that he regrets and then he snaps back out of it," Dickert said Monday.
"It is not going to be about stats, it is going to be based on who gives us the best chance to win," Dickert said.
Other notes from Saturday's scrimmage:
Oregon transfer wide receiver Kris Hutson had a big day, hauling in a pair of touchdown receptions as well as a deep ball from Mateer.
The first team defense had a good day forcing the Hall interception and a fourth down stop, but Coach Dickert noted communication issues on the back end, which led to explosive plays downfield from the offense.
Third string quarterback Jaxon Potter continued a strong fall camp without turning the ball over and throwing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Hills.
Offensive lineman Fa'alili Fa'amoe is not likely to return before week two of the regular season as he continues to rehab an injury.
WSU will hold an open practice Wednesday night at Gesa Field ahead of the final scrimmage of fall camp on Saturday night.
The Cougs open the regular season on August 31 at home against Portland State. Kick-off is set for noon.
