Praise for Too Good to Be Through

"As a journalist, Bud Withers always knew the right questions to ask, the right people to ask them to, and used his storytelling gifts to ensure that his reportorial nuggets shined. “Too Good To Be Through” is more of the same. In detailing the Apple Cup’s unforgettable moments, bygone details and zany characters, Bud leaves the reader with an inescapable conclusion: in the upside-down world of college athletics, this rivalry is more essential than ever." 

- Billy Witz, New York Times

“Pull up a barstool while Bud Withers holds court about the rich history of the Apple Cup. We all know that purple clashes with crimson, and there is plenty of that here. But Bud delivers so much more: not just the stories but the backstories, not just the sniping and the pranks but the deep mutual respect that lies just below the surface. I agreed with the title. When I turned the last page, I thought the book was Too Good to Be Through.”

- Ivan Maisel, Football Writers Association of America Hall of Fame member; author of American Coach

“At a time when college rivalries are fading, this book is a love letter to one of the best. A must-read for anyone who bleeds purple, crimson – or simply loves the game.”

- Ashley Adamson, studio host, Big Ten Network

“Any time I see a Bud Withers byline or author line under a book title, I’m interested. Withers has penned another winner with “Too Good to Be Through,” the definitive book on the Apple Cup football rivalry that has endured for 125 years. Through research and interviews with key coaches and players, Bud provides substance, back stories and color from both sides of the continuing Cougars vs. Huskies saga.”

- Kerry Eggers, Kerryeggers.com, former Oregon Journal and Oregonian writer

“The Apple Cup is a series worthy of this in-depth examination, and there’s nobody more qualified than Bud Withers to bring it to life. With plenty of original reporting and new details, “Too Good to Be Through” should be required reading for fans both purple and crimson – or for anyone who loves a good rivalry.”

- Christian Caple, On Montlake

“While the Apple Cup rivalry may be perceived just to be a fierce one locally, Bud makes sure it’s given the national respect it deserves.”

- Brandon Huffman, national recruiting editor, 247Sports