Washington Huskies Football: Three Bold Predictions for the Husky Defense

The Washington Husky defense has made strides within the last couple of years at times. But, the problem has been consistency and being able to step up in big games when the offense was not firing on all cylinders.

For example, in the Oregon game  last season the  offense turned the ball over at key times and the defense could not rise up and stop the Ducks. Another example is the Arizona State game where the defense could not make a play and get themselves off the field despite a horrific offensive performance.

The inability to get off the field even in the worst of adversity is something that has to change. The change will be a result of a stronger defensive coach staff that holds players accountable. So with that here are three bold predictions for the Washington defense this season.

Bold Prediction #1 The defensive line is going to reestablish a foundation of controlling  the line of scrimmage

With the experience of senior defensive end Hau’oli Kikaha and senior defensive tackle Danny Shelton leading the way. The Huskies will begin to reestablish a tradition of controlling the line of scrimmage. For way too long the defensive line has been way too mediocre to poor at best. With new defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski in place fans will finally get to see the foundation laid of very gold defensive line that will cause plenty of trouble for opposing teams this fall.

Bold Prediction #2 The defense will not have a game this season where they give up 50 points

This goes back to being more consistent and fundamentally sound. The Husky defense has had a problematkic tendency to give up big plays that rack up points and yards allowed very quickly. This defense will have growing pains with the young secondary. But, there is enough experience in the front seven to keep the defense from imploding like they have many times in the past.

Bold Prediction #3 Budda Baker is going to be the top freshman defensive player in the Pac-12

Baker was the signature in-state recruit in the state of Washington. Baker has the speed and the overall ability to be able to come in and handle the big stage of playing in his backyard as a former Bellevue High School standout. The other thing in Baker’s favor is the opportunity for early playing time as the depth in the secondary is  thin. Look for Baker to get five interceptions including a couple of interception returns for touchdowns.