When most people think of Washington State football, one of three things likely comes to mind: former head coach Mike Leach , the Ol'Crimson flag on "College GameDay," or -- if you're a little older -- infamous draft bust Ryan Leaf.

One thing is for certain: you aren't thinking about the 2023 version of the Cougars that went 5-7. Yet in the not so distant future, that team may be the answer to a unique trivia question.

You see the quarterback room of that 2023 team featured the most recent No. 1 overall pick in Cameron Ward before he transferred to Miami . His backup on that team -- John Mateer -- took over as the starter for the Cougars in 2024. Mateer threw for 3,136 yards with 29 touchdowns and seven interceptions while running for 1,008 yards (per NFL statkeeping) an

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