Washington State vs Duquesne Prediction & Betting Tips for Week 3 on 9/19/2026

The Duquesne Dukes are set to travel to Pullman, WA, for their Week 3 game against the Washington State Cougars at Martin Stadium. Both teams are looking to bounce back from early-season defeats, with the Dukes holding a 0-1 record after a loss to the Air Force Falcons. The game will be broadcast on USA, kicking off at 3:30 PM on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

Washington State will play its first home game of the season after two road losses, leaving them at 0-2. The Cougars are part of the competitive Pac-12 conference and will be looking to leverage home-field advantage at Martin Stadium. Despite their recent setbacks, they have a chance to reset their season trajectory with this game.

The odds heavily favor Washington State, with Duquesne listed at +8000 on the moneyline and a spread of +38.5. Both teams have struggled offensively, with Duquesne failing to score against Air Force and Washington State managing only 17 points across two games. It will be critical for both sides to improve their offensive output to achieve their first win of the season.

Washington State vs Duquesne At a Glance

• Game Location: Martin Stadium in Pullman, WA
• Game Time: Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 3:30 PM
• TV Broadcast: USA Network
• Duquesne Dukes Record: 0-1 this season
• Washington State Cougars Record: 0-2 this season
• Game Odds: Duquesne moneyline at +8000; Washington State spread at -38.5 (-115)

Washington State Cougars: A Closer Look at the Upcoming Game

Offensive Overview

The Washington State Cougars have had a challenging start to the 2026 season, averaging only 17 points per game, which places them 77th nationally. Their passing game has particularly struggled, ranking 130th with 207 yards on average. However, the rushing attack shows some promise, with 201 yards per game ranking 110th.

Returning quarterback Zevi Eckhaus is tasked with improving the team's aerial performance. Last season, Eckhaus threw for 1,758 yards and 12 touchdowns, yet his completion rate has not translated into current success. He is supported by a versatile rushing unit led by Kirby Vorhees, who amassed 576 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns in the previous season.

Defensive Analysis

Defensively, the Cougars have allowed 58 points over two games, positioning them 46th nationally in points against. Despite not registering a sack so far, their pass defense has been bolstered by 2 interceptions, ranking them 3rd in that category. This unit needs to apply more pressure on opposing quarterbacks to complement their solid pass coverage.

The Cougars' defense has shown capability in recovering turnovers, although they have not yet recovered a fumble this season. Balaam Miller's availability could play a crucial role in their defensive lineup as he is currently questionable due to injury.

Key Players to Watch

On offense, watch for wide receiver Joshua Meredith, who returns with 641 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns from last season. He will be a vital target for Eckhaus to help stretch the field. Also, keep an eye on tight end Trey Leckner, though currently injured, his return could provide a significant boost.

In the backfield, Angel Johnson and Leo Pulalasi offer depth, contributing a combined 397 rushing yards last season. These running backs will be pivotal in establishing a balanced offensive attack against their upcoming opponents.

Injury Report

Injuries have impacted the Cougars, with key players like tight end Trey Leckner and wide receiver Tony Freeman sidelined. Freeman is out for the entire season due to a knee injury, significantly impacting the receiving corps. The team will also miss the contributions of tight end Hudson Cedarland, who is out with a leg injury.

These absences place more pressure on the healthy starters and depth players to step up in the upcoming games. Peyton Read remains questionable, and his status could influence the team's strategy on game day.

Betting Trends

• SU - As Favorite: 23-7 (76.7%) over the last 30 games.
• SU - Home Games: 11-2 (84.6%) over the last 13 games.
• ATS - Home Games: 3-0 (100.0%) over the last 3 games.
• ATS - Totals ≥ 50: 3-0 (100.0%) over the last 3 games.
• ATS - As Underdog: 6-1 (85.7%) over the last 7 games.

Duquesne Dukes Look to Rebound in Upcoming Game

Quarterback Situation

Tyler Riddell is expected to lead the Duquesne Dukes as their starting quarterback. Last season, Riddell had 44 passing attempts, with a completion rate contributing to 206 passing yards. He will need to reduce turnovers, as he threw two interceptions during his previous appearances.

Logan Kushner, another quarterback on the roster, saw limited action last season with only eight passing attempts. Kushner's experience is minimal compared to Riddell, but he could provide depth if needed.

Running Backs Analysis

Ness Davis leads the rushing attack for Duquesne with 119 yards from the previous season. Despite not reaching the end zone, his ability to gain ground will be crucial in the upcoming game. Shawn Solomon Jr. also contributes to the ground game with 62 rushing yards and provides another option in the backfield.

Taj Butts and Dazhaun Hopkins add depth to the running back position. Butts managed 38 rushing yards in his appearances last season, while Hopkins had 11 yards. The team will rely on this group to control the pace and keep the opposing defense on their toes.

Receiving Corps

Joey Isabella stands out among the wide receivers, with 10 receptions and 134 yards from last season. B.J. Alexander adds to the receiving threat with three catches, 21 yards, and a receiving touchdown. Jermaine Johnson and Ian Sheehan provide additional options, with Johnson securing five receptions for 38 yards.

Garrett Harrold, the top tight end, recorded three receptions for six yards. His role in short-yardage situations and blocking assignments will be important as the Dukes aim to improve their offensive efficiency.

Team Betting Trends

• O/U - All Games: Last 7 Games (2023–2026) → 6-1 (85.7%)
• O/U - As Underdog: Last 7 Games (2023–2026) → 6-1 (85.7%)
• O/U - Away Games: Last 7 Games (2023–2026) → 6-1 (85.7%)
• O/U - After Loss: Last 7 Games (2023–2026) → 6-1 (85.7%)
• O/U - Totals ≥ 50: Last 7 Games (2023–2026) → 6-1 (85.7%)
• ATS - All Games: Last 11 Games (2021–2026) → 4-7 (36.4%)
• ATS - As Underdog: Last 11 Games (2021–2026) → 4-7 (36.4%)
• ATS - Away Games: Last 11 Games (2021–2026) → 4-7 (36.4%)
• ATS - Totals ≥ 50: Last 10 Games (2021–2026) → 3-7 (30.0%)
• ATS - After Loss: Last 9 Games (2021–2026) → 2-7 (22.2%)

Washington State vs Duquesne Prediction: Washington State -38.5

Washington State is looking to bounce back after a tough start to the season with an 0-2 record. They have a strong history of performing well as a favorite, as evidenced by their 23-7 straight-up record over the last 30 games in that role. Additionally, their recent 3-0 record against the spread (ATS) at home further strengthens their case as the likely dominant force in this matchup.

Duquesne has struggled, particularly on the road, where they lost their season opener with a score of 0-34 against Air Force. Their ATS record is concerning, with a 4-7 record in the last 11 games. This trend suggests that they might find it challenging to cover a nearly 39-point spread against a more established program like Washington State.

The Cougars have the home-field advantage at Martin Stadium, which has been a stronghold for them, holding an 11-2 straight-up record in their last 13 home games. This game provides them with an excellent opportunity to regain confidence, considering their impressive ATS record of 8-2 over the last ten games overall.

Based on these trends and performance metrics, Washington State is favored to not only win but to cover the spread comfortably. We project Washington State to win with a final score of 48-7, making them a strong pick at -38.5.

• Washington State vs Duquesne Prediction: Washington State -38.5
• Washington State vs Duquesne Score: Washington State 48 - Duquesne 7

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