The Husky Haul
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What Awaits Washington Husky Football In 2017?

By Bret Stuter

Oct 8, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; The University of Washington Huskies football team takes the field before the start of a game against the University of Oregon at Autzen Stadium. The Huskies won 70-21. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; The University of Washington Huskies football team takes the field before the start of a game against the University of Oregon at Autzen Stadium. The Huskies won 70-21. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports /
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DEFENSE

Defensive line

2016 review: Connor O’Brian Elijah Qualls, Greg Gaines and Vita Vea anchored a solid defensive line for the Washington Huskies. With Elijah Qualls electing the NFL, the team has retained three of the four starters.

2017 outlook: Vita Vea elected to stay with Washington, and that gives the program to improve the defense this year.. Although eligible for the NFL, Vea is projected as a top ten next year with a strong season.

"“When he gets it all put together, he’s (Vita Vea) going to be really, really special,” defensive line coach Ikaika Malloe said"

Redshirted sophomore Shane Bowman will likely slide in to Qualls slot at defensive tackle. The team is also quite eager for the arrival of 2017 recruits defensive tackle Marlon Tuipulotu and defensive end Joe Tryon.

Linebackers

2016 review:  Joe Mathis was injured, and Psalm Wooching are two who will not return to this squad. The team did get reliable play from Azeem Victor, Keishawn Bierria,  Ben Burr-Kirven, DJ Beavers, Connor O’Brien and Trevis Bartlett when they were asked to step up.

2017 outlook: The team will depend heavily upon the returning group to lead the defense once more. The key to the defense may be how well Victory and Bierria rule the middle.  The team may look to promote promising Trevis Bartlett this season.  That would make room for 2017 recruit Ariel Ngata to play a role in reserve.

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