Inside the Cougs’ Wide Receiver Room: A Conversation with Coach Jake Menage

Jake Menage, the wide receivers coach at Washington State University, has embarked on a remarkable journey that has led him to the Palouse. With a rich background in football, both as a player and a coach, Menage shares his experiences and insights about the Cougars' spring camp, the talent in the wide receiver room, and what fans can expect in the upcoming season.

From Player to Coach: The Journey Begins

Menage's football journey began at South Dakota State, where he was fortunate enough to play wide receiver. Growing up in southern Minnesota, the opportunity to play close to home was a dream come true. He recalls, "I knew early on that I wanted to get into coaching." After his playing days, he transitioned into coaching, starting at a Division II school before moving to a graduate assistant role at Northern Illinois.

The Path to Washington State

After gaining valuable experience and serving as an offensive coordinator at Northwestern College in Iowa, Menage got a chance to return to his alma mater, South Dakota State. There, he enjoyed a special year that culminated in a national championship. "Not many people get that opportunity," he reflects gratefully. His journey took another turn when Coach Rogers invited him to join the coaching staff at Washington State.

Settling into Pullman

After moving to Washington, Menage's initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive. The support for Washington State football is palpable, and he appreciates the community's passion for the team. "The support for the football team is really unmatched," he notes. The small-town feel of Pullman resonates with his background, making the transition smoother.

Embracing the Coug Brand

Menage acknowledges the legacy of Mike Leach and the significance of the Crimson Flag. "It probably makes recruiting a little bit easier," he admits, recognizing the national brand that Washington State has developed. The Coug flag, seen at College GameDay, has become an iconic symbol that helps put the school on the map.

The Family Aspect of Coaching

Family ties run deep for Menage, as his father was the offensive coordinator at South Dakota State during his playing days. Additionally, his cousin coaches safeties, adding a unique dynamic to their coaching collaboration. "It's pretty cool to have that family aspect," he says, emphasizing how special it is to work alongside loved ones in a profession that often keeps families apart.

A Closer Look at the Wide Receiver Room

As spring ball wrapped up, Menage expressed excitement about the talent in the wide receiver room. With players like Josh Meredith, Devin Ellison, and Tre Shackelford, he sees a diverse skill set among the receivers. "We have a little bit of everything," he notes, comparing the group to a basketball team where each player has a unique role.

Understanding Each Player's Role

Menage describes Devin Ellison as a "point forward," capable of fitting into multiple roles due to his versatility. "He's pretty gifted," Menage remarks, acknowledging that while Ellison has immense potential, he still has room to grow. The goal is to build on the foundation laid during spring and prepare for the upcoming season.

The Transition from Player to Coach

For Menage, transitioning from player to coach was a natural progression. With a father who coached, he always had an inclination towards coaching. "I knew I wanted to get into coaching for a long time," he states. Watching coaches during his playing career helped shape his vision for his own coaching style.

Building a Cohesive Coaching Staff

Menage highlights the unique camaraderie among the coaching staff, many of whom are around the same age and share similar life experiences. "Every day I come into work, these are some of my best friends," he shares. This culture of camaraderie is crucial in creating a positive environment for both coaches and players.

Collaboration with Tight Ends Coach

Collaboration between the wide receivers and tight ends is essential, and Menage works closely with Coach Chris Myers. "We talk quite a bit," he notes, emphasizing the importance of speaking the same language when it comes to route running and technique. This synergy helps both groups maximize their potential on the field.

The Freshman Impact

Menage is optimistic about the incoming freshman class, including players like Noah Westbrook and Dycurian Douglas. "Spring ball is super valuable," he explains, as it provides young players with a head start in learning the offense. This early exposure can significantly boost their confidence as they transition into the more intense fall camp.

Looking Ahead: The Quarterback Connection

One of the key components of the wide receiver's success is the quarterback throwing the ball. Menage is enthusiastic about Zevi Eckhaus, praising his energy and commitment to the game. "He's a true student of the game," Menage affirms, recognizing the positive influence Zevi has on the team.

Game Day Attire and Style

As for his game day attire, Menage prefers a casual look—typically a hoodie or long sleeve shirt paired with a trucker-style hat. "You got to have a little bit of swag coaching wideouts," he quips, underscoring the importance of looking the part while being on the sidelines.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

As Coach Menage gears up for the upcoming season, his passion for the game and dedication to his players are evident. With a talented wide receiver room and a supportive coaching staff, the Cougs are poised for an exciting year ahead. Menage's journey from player to coach has come full circle, and he is ready to make his mark at Washington State.

Keep an eye on the Cougs this fall—it's going to be an exciting season!

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