Washington State is one win away from playing in its first bowl game in a decade, and the quick reversal of fortunes by Mike Leach in Pullman netted the second-year Cougars coach a contract extension.
Washington State AD Bill Moos announced Monday a contract extension through 2018 for Leach, who formerly took Texas Tech to a bowl game in each of his 10 seasons in Lubbock.
“Mike Leach has done a fabulous job in his short time at Washington State,” Moos said. “Extending his contract through the 2018 season will ensure a bright future for Cougar football. He has elevated the program on the field, in the community and in the classroom. I believe he is among the best college football coaches in America and is a fantastic fit in Pullman.”
Leach’s short tenure at Washington State hasn’t been smooth -- last year, wide receiver Marquess Wilson accused Leach of abuse, though quickly recanted the claim.
Washington State has a winnable game against Utah on tap Saturday before ending its season at Washington. And it seems like forever ago, but Washington State played neck-and-neck with Auburn in Week 1, losing 31-24 but holding Nick Marshall to 10/19 passing for 99 yards and nine rushes for 27 yards.