As the autumn chill sets in, the heat of college sports intensifies, with athletes across Washington state gearing up for a week of thrilling matchups. But here’s where it gets intense: Will your favorite team rise to the occasion or falter under pressure? Let’s dive into the packed schedule from October 17 to 24, 2025, and explore the highlights you won’t want to miss.
Football: Clashes That Could Define the Season
On October 18, the gridiron heats up with powerhouse matchups. UW (5-1) travels to Michigan for a 9 a.m. showdown—a game that could test their early-season dominance. Meanwhile, WSU (3-3) faces Virginia at 3:30 p.m., aiming to even their record. And this is the part most people miss: EWU (2-4) takes on Idaho at 4 p.m., a rivalry game that could spark a turnaround for the struggling Eagles. Capping the day, CWU (5-1) battles Texas A&M at 6 p.m., a true test of their undefeated streak.
Volleyball: Spikes and Surprises
The volleyball courts are buzzing with action. On October 17, UW (8-8) faces Penn State at 7 p.m., a matchup that could tip the scales for either team. Controversial take: Is UW’s inconsistent season a sign of deeper issues, or just a mid-season slump? Meanwhile, Gonzaga (9-7) hosts Saint Mary’s at noon on October 18, aiming to solidify their position. CWU (10-4) travels to Alaska Fairbanks at 3 p.m., a game that could boost their conference standing.
Soccer: Kicking Up Drama
The soccer fields are no less dramatic. In men’s soccer, UW (7-3-2) faces a tough road trip to Rutgers on October 17 at 4 p.m., followed by a clash against Ohio State on October 24 at 7 p.m. Women’s soccer sees WSU (4-5-4) take on Gonzaga (5-8) at 7 p.m. on October 18, a rivalry game that always delivers fireworks. Question for the audience: Which team do you think will come out on top in this heated matchup?
Cross Country, Tennis, and Beyond: The Unsung Heroes
While football and soccer grab the headlines, cross country and tennis athletes are quietly making waves. On October 17, Gonzaga, WSU, and UW compete at the Nuttycombe Invitational at 9:50 a.m., a meet that could reveal early-season favorites. In tennis, Gonzaga and UW head to the ITA Regionals in Stockton, CA, from October 17 to 21, battling for regional supremacy. Bold prediction: Could this be the year Gonzaga takes the title?
Golf, Rowing, and Swim: Precision Meets Passion
Golf enthusiasts will watch UW at the Stanford Intercollegiate from October 17 to 19, followed by the Golf Club of Georgia Collegiate on October 24. Rowing fans, mark your calendars for October 18 as Gonzaga faces WSU at 9 a.m., a rivalry that’s as intense on the water as it is on land. Swim fans, don’t miss WSU at the MPSF Open Water Championships on October 18 at 9 a.m.
Men’s Basketball: Tip-Off to the Season
The hardwood heats up early with UW (0-0) facing UNLV at noon on October 19, while Gonzaga (1-0) takes on Northwest at 2 p.m. Thought-provoking question: Can UW start their season on a high note, or will UNLV prove too tough?
This week’s schedule is packed with action, drama, and potential upsets. Which game are you most excited for? And which team do you think will surprise everyone? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your predictions and insights!
