NCAA Football
Washington Football Preview: Now or Never
The Washington Huskies have always been a team that can be competitive, even winning the PAC-12 title multiple times, yet never seems to win the big one and take home a national title. Everyone thought this would change when new red-hot head coach Chris Peterson came over from Boise State. It didn’t work out the first couple seasons, but then it all came together in 2016, culminating in a trip to the College Football Preview. They were blown out by Alabama, but everyone thought this was just going to be the start of a dynasty. Then last year happened. Everything was going well and it looked like they were set for another trip to the CFP. Then on one fateful night in Tempe, the Huskies were shocked by the Sun Devils. After the second loss to Stanford, the Huskies had to settle for a trip to the Fiesta Bowl. There they were beaten by Penn State. This year is different from last. The team lost pieces, especially on the defensive end, yet have enough to make a run for the Playoff. One that they have to make now or never.
One Big Question?
Can Jake Browning stay consistent? He has shown he can be a great quarterback. But in big situations, he can lose his patience, often times leading to unwise decisions. This was especially on display in the Arizona State game last year. On multiple late game drives he ran around and got sacked for big losses when he should have just thrown it away. If Washington wants to seriously contend, Browning has to become more consistent and keep his head during big game situations.
Predictions
I see this team having no problem with 80 percent of its schedule. The only two teams I see them losing to is Auburn and Stanford. This would keep them out of the Playoff more than likely and relegate them to a New Years Six bowl or worse for the second straight season.
Game To Watch
The Auburn matchup is for more than Washington’s chance at the CFP. It’s a way for the PAC-12 to establish themselves as a top-tier conference once again. Every member of the PAC-12 needs Washington to win to help their teams out. Now watch as they choke this game away along with the reputation of the conference.
Upset Alert
As fun as it would be to say ASU again, I think the biggest chance is Oregon. The three teams are competing for the PAC-12 North. If Oregon wins, this keeps Washington out of a New Years Six and would set Oregon up for a chance at the Playoff.
