The Apple Cup stands as one of college football's most intense rivalries, drawing attention from fans across the nation each season. This annual clash between the University of Washington and Washington State University determines bragging rights across the Pacific Northwest. Below is a structured overview of recent Apple Cup outcomes and key context.
The results table captures recent Apple Cup matchups, including the final score, winning team, venue location, and attendance figures for each game.
| Season | Date | Score | Winner | Venue | Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | November 24 | 38–35 | Washington Huskies | Lumen Field, Seattle | 62,164 |
| 2022 | November 26 | 42–21 | Washington Huskies | Lumen Field, Seattle | 57,733 |
| 2021 | November 27 | 28–21 | Washington State Cougars | Martin Stadium, Pullman | 31,576 |
| 2020 | December 12 | 28–15 | Washington Huskies | Lumen Field, Seattle | 0 |
| 2019 | November 30 | 38–16 | Washington Huskies | Martin Stadium, Pullman | 30,807 |
Recent Apple Cup Winners and Trends
Over the last several seasons, the University of Washington has dominated the Apple Cup rivalry with decisive victories. The Huskies have combined strong offensive production with stout defensive plays to secure wins in multiple consecutive matchups. This sustained performance has shifted the narrative toward Washington controlling the rivalry in the 2020s.
Historical Context of the Rivalry
The Apple Cup dates back to 1900, making it one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in college football. Named after Washington's Apple Cup trophy shaped like an apple, the game historically carries deep regional pride for both campuses. Over more than a century, the rivalry has seen dramatic comebacks, shared national championship implications, and iconic individual performances.
Impact of Venue on Game Outcomes
The location of the Apple Cup often plays a decisive role, as home-field atmosphere influences momentum and fan engagement. Martin Stadium in Pullman presents an intimidating environment with its close-in setting and devoted student section. Meanwhile, Lumen Field in Seattle offers a modern facility with significantly larger capacity, frequently amplifying crowd energy for home team advantage.
Current Season Performance and Analysis
Each season brings new storylines to the Apple Cup, including quarterback battles, defensive matchups, and conference implications. Analysts often focus on turnover margins, third-down conversion rates, and red-zone efficiency as key predictors of the winner. Recent matchups have underscored the importance of special teams and late-game execution in tight contests.
Key Takeaways for Following the Apple Cup
- Washington has won four of the last five Apple Cup matchups through 22023.
- The series dates back to 1900, making it one of the oldest rivalries in college football.
- Venue plays a major role, with home-field advantage often influencing outcomes at Martin Stadium or Lumen Field.
- Close scorelines and turnovers frequently define the narrative of this rivalry.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who won the most recent Apple Cup in 2023?
Washington Huskies won the most recent Apple Cup in 2023 with a score of 38–35 on November 24 at Lumen Field.
Which team has won more Apple Cups historically?
Washington holds the historical edge in the all-time series against Washington State with more victories overall since the rivalry began in 1900.
Why is the Apple Cup rivalry considered so competitive?
The Apple Cup remains competitive because both teams share geographic proximity, recruiting overlap, and conference stakes, leading to tightly contested games with narrow margins.
How does the Apple Cup affect Pac-12 or conference standings?
The Apple Cup can have direct implications for Pac-12 divisional positioning, bowl selections, and postseason narratives, making regular-season intensity especially high for both programs.