August 25, 2026
UC Davis Transfer Caden Pinnick Named Washington State's Starting QB
The redshirt sophomore beat out returners Julian Dugger and Owen Eshelman in a competition that stretched from spring practice through fall camp.
Washington State has found its starting quarterback, naming UC Davis transfer Caden Pinnick the starter for the upcoming season. The program made the announcement on social media on Monday, ending a three-way competition that had played out over several months.
Pinnick, a redshirt sophomore, beat out returning options Julian Dugger and Owen Eshelman to claim the position. The quarterback battle had begun in spring practice and continued through fall camp, which wrapped up Sunday evening in Pullman.
Long Road to a Decision
The length of the competition underscored how closely contested the race was. All three quarterbacks had opportunities to make their case across both spring and fall sessions, with Pinnick ultimately separating himself from the two returners in the eyes of the coaching staff.
Pinnick arrived at Washington State as a transfer from UC Davis, where he developed before making the jump to the Pac-12 program. His selection gives the Cougars a newcomer under center as they open the season.
With fall camp now complete and a starter in place, Washington State can turn its full attention to game preparation. The Cougars' decision brings clarity to arguably the most scrutinized position on the roster heading into the new campaign.
