The 1972 Washington State Cougars football team was an American football team that represented Washington State University in the Pacific-8 Conference (Pac-8) during the 1972 NCAA University Division football season. In their fifth season under head coach Jim Sweeney, the Cougars compiled a in the Pac-8, tied for 3rd), and outscored their opponents 274 to 241.
The team's statistical leaders included Ty Payne with 1,349 passing yards, Ken Grandberry with 833 rushing yards, and Brock Aynsley with 344 receiving yards.
Martin Stadium made its debut in late September and hosted four games; top-ranked USC was played in Seattle and the was at Joe Albi Stadium
Washington State won their first Apple Cup in four years over favored #17 Washington, dealing Husky quarterback Sonny Sixkiller a in his final collegiate The Cougars finished in the top twenty in both major polls; the Pac-8 did not allow a second bowl team until
Two Washington State players, both offensive linemen, were named to the all-conference team: senior tackle Bill Moos and sophomore guard Steve Ostermann. On the second team (honorable mention) was linebacker Clyde Warehime. Ostermann returned to the first team in 1973 and 1974.
One Cougar was selected in the 1973 NFL draft.