The Husky Haul
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Huskies prove they are playoff worthy in win over Cal

By Karley Sibert

Sep 23, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) looks to pass against the California Golden Bears during the second quarter at Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) looks to pass against the California Golden Bears during the second quarter at Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Washington football proves that they are a CFB playoff team in win over Cal.

The Huskies delivered a commanding performance in their first Pac-12 match-up on the season, dominating right from the start. Washington football wasted no time making their presence felt on the field. They didn’t want Cal to get comfortable early and just a few minutes into the game, linebacker Edefuan Ulofoshio intercepted a pass, setting the tone for a relentless defensive game.

On the following kickoff, the Huskies special teams took off with Rome Odunze’s spectacular 83-yard punt return adding to the Huskies’ early lead. It felt like Husky QB Michael Penix Jr. wasn’t ever going to see the field. When he finally did, Penix showed us why he is a front-runner for the Heisman Trophy. He finished with 19 completions for 304 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. Two of those touchdowns went to wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk and the other two to Odunze.

Aside from Penix’s downfield missiles, running back Dillon Johnson rushed for 66 yards on 10 carries for one touchdown. This felt like the first game this season where the Huskies offense really felt balanced between the run and the pass.

On the defensive side of things, defensive back Dom Hampton snagged an interception late in the 1st quarter, showcasing Washington’s determination to keep pace with the high-flying offense.

Transfer cornerback Jabbar Muhammad also snagged an interception, his first with the team. This was the Huskies seventh interception on the season. Last season they had seven altogether.

Cal did manage to find the end zone four times but it didn’t do much for them in the end. One touchdown was caught by former Husky Taj Davis, who transferred to Cal before the season. Their quarterback Ben Finley struggled under pressure and threw three interceptions in the first half alone.

This impressive 59-32 win showcased Washington football’s all-around prowess, demonstrating their ability to excel in offense, defense, and special teams. They deserve a much higher spot than No 8. in the AP’s Top 25 poll.

Next week, the Huskies travel to Arizona to take on the Wildcats.

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