Passing game of Washington Football team showing positive trends
By Bret Stuter
![SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 16: Tight end Hunter Bryant SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 16: Tight end Hunter Bryant](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/8e6339bb3be62027ee58b2871201f32c46e171d31674253c8e4b5ff07a9f8b44.jpg)
The Washington Football passing game showing some positive trends. Freshman Hunter Bryant steps out as legit third threat on offense
The Washington Football team possesses a very patient offense, with plays designed to set up the opponent with the next called play. And the first half of the California game has involved a setting the foundation for misdirections and big second half plays.
So far, the passing game has been very deliberate. The main course for the feast has featured quarterback Jake Browning throwing to spots. Wide receiver screens and curl routes have been tonight’s catch of the day on the menu.
Hunter Bryant stepping up
But that passing game gets a bit of a supercharge when it aims at the growing role of tight end Hunter Bryant. So far in this first half, it does not appear that Cal has a defensive answer for the freshman tight end from Issaquah, Washington.
That is great news for a team which continues to build momentum towards an NCAA playoff bid.
2017 Game Log Receiving
DATE OPP RESULT REC YDS AVG LNG TD
9/1 @Rutgers W 30-14 1 4 4.0 4 0
9/9 Montana W 63-7 1 10 10.0 10 0
9/16 Fresno State W 48-16 3 99 33.0 50 0
9/23 @Colorado W 37-10 2 12 6.0 8 0
9/30 @Oregon State W 42-7 3 57 19.0 32 0
10/7 California 31-0 (Q3) 9 121 13.4 29 1
As you see, Bryant continues to progress as a weapon in this offense. And the Huskies are very grateful for the tight ends production.
More toys for Jake Browning
Browning is very underrated. While he doesn’t toss the 99 yard touchdown in the air, his game is about ball control, high success passes. He knows how to extend plays with his feet, but he continues to focus downfield even as the plays break down.
Jake Browning continues to throw touchdowns. He has thrown for a touchdown in each of his last 20 games now, adding two more against Cal so far with a full quarter remaining. When WR Chico McClatcher fell to a broken ankle, the team was hopeful another receiver could step up.
Next: Golden opportunity as Washington Football faces California per Coach Petersen
Hunter Bryant hoped to be such a player when he turned heads in training camp. Now he is delivering on all cylinders. This was a great game to showcase the freshman. Featured before the bye, his confidence level is soaring.