**Game Recap: #12 Washington State Cougars (6-0) vs. Hawaii Rainbow Warriors (3-3)**
*Final Score: Washington State 49, Hawaii 41*
The #12 Washington State Cougars survived a high-scoring thriller in Honolulu, outlasting the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors 49-41 to remain undefeated at 6-0. In a game filled with explosive plays and momentum swings, it was a late interception by Washington State’s **Smithson** near the end zone that sealed the win for the Cougars.
**First Quarter:**
The Cougars struck first with a bang as quarterback **John Mateer** broke loose for a **64-yard touchdown run** at 2:50. Hawaii answered just over a minute later with a **34-yard field goal by Kansei**, trimming the lead to 7-3.
**Second Quarter:**
Washington State took control early in the second quarter. **Josh Joyner powered in a 9-yard touchdown run** at 6:25, followed by an **8-yard touchdown pass from Mateer to Cooper Mathers** at 4:09, giving the Cougars a 21-3 lead.
Hawaii responded quickly with a **50-yard bomb from Brayden to Koali** at 3:48. The Rainbow Warriors added three more points with a **39-yard field goal**, and then capitalized again before the half with a **45-yard field goal by Kansei**, narrowing the gap to 21-16 at halftime.
**Third Quarter:**
The third quarter turned into an offensive showcase, with **both teams scoring 21 points** apiece. Big plays and rapid scoring defined the period, keeping fans on the edge of their seats and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
**Fourth Quarter:**
Both squads added a touchdown in the final frame, but the game was ultimately decided by a clutch defensive stand. With Hawaii threatening to tie the game late, **Smithson intercepted Brayden near the end zone**, preserving the 8-point lead and securing the Cougars’ sixth straight win.
**Final Thoughts:**
Washington State’s offense, led by Mateer’s dual-threat performance, proved just enough to fend off a relentless Hawaii team. The Cougars now turn their focus to conference play with serious playoff aspirations, while the Warriors fall to 3-3 despite a gutsy performance against a top-ranked opponent.
Would you like a full box score or player stat breakdown for each team?
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