Washington football’s top 5 players to watch in Week 2

Washington football comfortably dispatched Boise State in Week 1 weekend to go 1-0 on the season. This week they are back at Husky Stadium and will welcome the Tulsa Golden Hurricane from the American Athletic Conference. Let’s take a look at who will be the players to watch in Week 2.

Washington football’s top 5 players to watch vs. Tulsa

Elijah Jackson, CB

Yes, Jackson didn’t have the prettiest game against Boise State in Week 1. However, the Sophomore didn’t work his butt off during camp to watch his starter role be taken away after one bad game. Fellow corner Devon Banks was excellent when he was on the field, but Jackson should still see snaps to rectify the Week 1 mistakes.

Head coach Kalen DeBoer’s response this week when asked about Elijah Jackson was supportive and indicated the cornerback would be a big part of Saturday’s game. The confidence shown in Jackson could be a big boost and it will be interesting to see how he performs against Tulsa.

Jack Westover, TE

All the talk was about the wide receivers in the passing game against Boise State but tight end Jack Westover also had a solid game with five catches for 59 yards and a touchdown. Westover wasn’t used a ton as a blocker, but did it effectively when called upon.

This week against a strong Tulsa run defense, Westover will be a pivotal part in making holes along the offensive line for the running backs. The Tulsa defense played soft coverage against the opposing receivers. If this happens again, Westover will be key in finding the soft spots underneath and being the blanket for Michael Penix Jr. if the big plays are not an option.

Bralen Trice, Edge

Edge rusher Bralen Trice had a quiet game getting to the quarterback in Week 1 but was effective in stopping the run. If Tulsa quarterback Cardell Williams gets the start, he will need to be aware of his rushing ability.

Freshman QB Williams came in late in the first quarter due to an injury to Tulsa’s starting cornerback. The Hurricane offensive line did their job in making it comfortable for Williams, who looked good with time in the pocket. Zion Tupuola-Fetui and Trice will need to make it as the QB as uncomfortable as possible. Getting into the backfield and making him hurry, while getting a few hits and sacks could knock his confidence.

Michael Penix Jr, QB

All eyes will be on Michael Penix Jr in Week 2 to see if he can continue his excellent form. The QB position will always be important, but after an impressive 2022 season, he has shown that he can continue to shine in 2023. Although most of the college world knew about the talents of Penix Jr., the remaining percent now know.

Not only on the field, but off it he has shown his leadership mentality. When asked about his favorite touchdown on Saturday, he was quick to answer with backup quarterback Dylan Morris’ late TD throw. Penix Jr. will have a different test in Week 2. However, he looks unfazed by anything that comes his way.

Dillon Johnson, RB

The Washington football offense didn’t run the ball as much as they imagined they would. It didn’t move that far when they did, aside from a few decent runs from Will Nixon. The passing game killed Boise State, so luckily it wasn’t a problem. In Week 2, they may have to use the run game more but it won’t be easy.

If the passing game does take steps back, Johnson will need to be better as a runner. The holes were there against Boise State, but they could not be capitalized on. Whoever takes the handoff, it will be interesting to see if Washington can move the ball effectively. If not, it could be a concern going forward.