Portland State Halftime Impressions: Dominance Through Two Quarters

I feel like I’m writing this post-game. The Vikings were absolutely shoved around all half long, and with a 45-0 lead, the Huskies clearly have this game handled. Here are a few reasons why:

Mismatches in the Passing Game

Multiple times in the 2nd quarter, Kasen Williams caught the ball in space, thought about juking, but instead chose to lower his shoulder and power forward for several extra yards. Austin Seferian-Jenkins has been an even more severe problem for Portland State’s defensive backs and linebackers. He has four catches for 72 yards and a touchdown, and has plucked the ball out of the air through extremely physical coverage several times, including on the touchdown grab. Even if both players spend most of the 2nd half on the sideline, they clearly made their presence known in the first half.

Nov 19, 2011; Corvallis, OR, USA; Washington Huskies tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins (88) celebrates his touchdown with wide receiver Kasen Williams (2) during the first half against the Oregon State Beavers at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Z. Rider-US PRESSWIRE

Horrific Special Teams for Portland State

The worst half of special teams play I’ve ever witnessed. A blocked field goal for a touchdown, a fumbled field goal snap, a badly defended fake-punt pass for a first down by the Huskies, and of course the failed onside kick attempt to start the game off. The game probably wouldn’t be close even without these mistakes, but they are the reason it’s a full on rout.

Physical Defense by Washington

The Huskies have, for the most part, tackled well in space and hit with power whenever a pass has been completed. Nothing spectacular, but Washington is clearly getting the job done on the defensive side of the ball.