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WSU Needs a Wise Old Owl in Their Coaching Nest

Pullman, Washington, USATue Nov 04 2025

Washington State University's football team is facing challenges, and it might be time for a fresh perspective on the coaching staff. Specifically, someone with more experience could make a significant difference.

The Case for Experience

Robb Akey, a 59-year-old interim coach, recently led Oregon State to a surprising win against WSU. This victory raises an intriguing question: Could WSU benefit from having a seasoned coach like Akey on their staff?

Akey is well-respected and brings a wealth of experience to the table. He has worked with former WSU coaches and even served as the head coach at Idaho. Under his leadership, Oregon State has shown improvement, despite starting the season with a losing streak. This demonstrates the impact that experience can have.

Current Coaching Dynamics

WSU's head coach, Jimmy Rogers, is doing a commendable job, but he is still new to the role. Both Rogers and many of his assistants share a similar background, having played and coached together at South Dakota State. While this shared history fosters camaraderie, it might also limit their perspectives. Adding someone with different experiences could bring new ideas to the table.

Offensive Struggles

One of the biggest issues for WSU is their offense. They struggled against Oregon State, with many failed attempts and poor play calls. This suggests that the offensive strategy needs a serious review. Hiring an experienced coach could help turn things around.

Defensive Strengths

On the other hand, WSU's defense has been strong all season, allowing few points in most games. This shows that Rogers knows what he's doing on the defensive side. However, the offense needs just as much attention.

A Willingness to Adapt

Rogers has shown he's willing to make changes when needed. If he wants to improve the team's performance, bringing in a veteran coach could be a smart move. It's not about replacing anyone but adding someone who can offer valuable advice and help the team grow.

questions

    Is the emphasis on experience a cover for something more sinister, like a secret agenda to change the team's strategy?
    How can the experience of an older coach be quantified and how does it directly translate to success on the field?
    What evidence supports the notion that adding an older coach to the staff will significantly improve team performance?

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