After a tough decade in which the Cougars won just 28 games, Mike Leach took Washington State to a bowl game. A 6-7 season will hardly set the world alight but after the last 10 years, it’s a huge step in the right direction for the Cougars. The offense run by prolific quarterback Connor Halliday led the way, while the defense showed a knack for turnovers.
Forrest West of Campus Sports recently sat down with running back Marcus Mason, who is looking forward to an increased role in the offense this season. Mason started 11 games last season, leading the team in rushing with 429 yards and two TDs in 87 carries in a pass first offense. The senior played a key role in the aerial attack as well, finishing second on the team in receiving with 52 catches for 390 yards and another two scores.
Marcus talks more about the coming season below.
Campus Sports – What does it mean to you to be named team captain?
Marcus – It’s an honor. I love that my team believes in me and I can’t wait to lead them this year on and off the field.
Campus Sports – What are you looking to improve on most during this fall camp as you prepare for your senior year?
Marcus – I mainly want to focus on being an all around better player. Make better pre-snap reads; perfect my knowledge on all assignments, blitzes, and defensive formations. I think I have gotten in much better shape and it’s showing so far with improvements with speed and quickness.
Campus Sports – What’s your favorite thing about playing for [head coach] Mike Leach?
Marcus – Fast paced offense, which gives us a chance to compete at this level against top teams in the competitive PAC 12
Campus Sports – Now that you’re a senior, and you’ve spent two years in Leach’s offense; do you see yourself having a bigger year than last? And how big?
Marcus – I think I’ll have a great year. The whole team [has] bought into his (Leach’s) system, so look for everyone to have a much bigger year than last season. I thought last year was a pretty good season for me personally, but I expect much more out of myself this season. Worked too hard not to have a good one.
Campus Sports – If you could say anything to all the WSU fans out there, what would it be?
Marcus – Go Cougars!
*Section Photo credit to Michael Chang, Getty Images;
