Devin Frischknecht likely to be key target for Cougars

PULLMAN — The quarterback says he has the best hands on the team. The offensive tackle he lines up next to says he's like a father figure to the team. The coaches say he has a shot to play in the NFL.

And yet, the name Devin Frischknecht barely registers with many WSU fans — though the senior tight end started to get noticed last November.

"He's a quiet guy, but he gets the job done," said offensive tackle Vaughn Lesuma. "He's like our provider."

"He pushes himself harder than anyone," said quarterback Gary Rogers. "If I see him open, he's the first guy I'm throwing to."

Frischknecht played two seasons at Snow College in his native state of Utah before transferring to WSU in January 2007.

He emerged an unlikely star in last year's Apple Cup, filling in for injured Jed Collins. He caught five passes for 88 yards and two touchdowns in a 42-35 WSU win.

Frischknecht had 18 receptions for 191 yards and three touchdowns in his first season at WSU, including a start against California.

The tight end is a husband and father.

"We weren't really excited to be here at first," he said. "But I love Pullman now. It's just like my hometown — maybe a little bigger."

Already regarded as a skilled route-runner with good hands, Frischknecht, 6 feet 3, 256 pounds, has worked on improving his blocking. Coach Paul Wulff said he believes Frischknecht has "all the physical tools" to do just that.

"He's got the perfect combination to be a great tight end," Wulff said.

Notes

• Starting receiver Jeshua Anderson, the NCAA 400-meter hurdle champion, has been diagnosed with a hernia and will undergo surgery Monday morning. There is no word on how long he will be sidelined.

• The Sept. 27 home game against Oregon will be televised by FSN at 3:15 p.m.