QB Falk Returns as Washington St. Seeks 3rd Straight Bowl

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — The return of record-setting quarterback Luke Falk for his senior year highlights Thursday's opening of spring practice for the Washington State football team, which is seeking a third consecutive bowl game.

The Cougars have 15 returning starters, including All-America offensive guard Cody O'Connell, a trio of established running backs and veteran linebackers Peyton Pelluer and Isaac Dotson.

The Cougars went 8-5 last season, losing to Minnesota in the Holiday Bowl.

Washington State will hold 15 practices. The annual Crimson and Gray Game will be April 22 in Spokane.

The 6-foot-4 Falk makes the Cougars strong contenders for the Pac-12 north title. He threw for 4,468 yards, completed 70 percent of his passes and finished with 37 touchdown passes last season.