The 1965 Washington State Cougars football team was an American football team that represented Washington State University in the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU) during the 1965 NCAA University Division football season.

In their second season under head coach Bert Clark, the Cougars compiled a 7–3 record (2–1 in AAWU, third), and outscored their opponents 139 to 103.

[4][5] With several close margins in their games, they became known as the "Cardiac Kids.

"[4][5][6] WSU dropped both rivalry games this season: the Battle of the Palouse at home to Idaho, and the Apple Cup to Washington in Seattle, which eliminated a possible Rose Bowl berth.

This was the final year for separate drafts; both were held on November 27, 1965.