1981 Washington State Cougars football team

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The 1981 Washington State Cougars football team represented Washington State University in the Pacific-10 Conference during the 1981 NCAA season. In head coach Jim Walden’s fourth year, the Cougars finished 8–3–1 overall and 5–2–1 in the Pac-10, tying for fourth place, and they outscored opponents 297 to 197. The offense was led by quarterback Clete Casper (939 passing yards), running back Tim Harris (915 rushing yards), and receiver Jeff Keller (495 receiving yards). Home games were mainly at Martin Stadium, with some played at Joe Albi Stadium in Spokane.

Entering the Apple Cup at 8–1–1, a win over Washington would have clinched the Pac-10 title and a Rose Bowl berth, their first in 51 years. Washington won at Husky Stadium, and went on to beat Iowa in the Rose Bowl. The Cougars played in the Holiday Bowl in San Diego, losing a close game to Brigham Young, 36–38, led by All-American quarterback Jim McMahon.

Four Cougars were selected in the 1982 NFL Draft. Coordinators were Pat Ruel (offense) and Bob Padilla (defense).