Unveiling the Washington football’s dominant secondary and interception surge
![Sep 16, 2023; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; Washington Huskies safety Mishael Powell (3) celebrates an interception of a Michigan State Spartans pass in the first quarter at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Young-USA TODAY Sports Sep 16, 2023; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; Washington Huskies safety Mishael Powell (3) celebrates an interception of a Michigan State Spartans pass in the first quarter at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Young-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/0d2da7ef480250b02f6ce1eec8627a8ae9c8dd54bc88b1f4bd3dd5f7bbe75c85.jpg)
One of Washington football’s most impressive aspects of their early season success has been the improved playmaking ability of the secondary.
After their recent win against Arizona, the Huskies’ interception total has now reached eight coming from seven different players. This already exceeds their total of seven interceptions from the entire 2022 season.
The departure of former defensive backs coach and head coach Jimmy Lake left only one concern; how well would defensive backs produce without him? Lake had a reputation for developing standout defensive backs who went on to be successful in the NFL. However, there isn’t much cause for concern anymore as current safeties coach Chuck Morell and cornerbacks coach Julius Brown have proven successful in their roles, as the defensive back group is performing at a high level.
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The new generation of Husky defensive backs, including standout transfer Jabbar Muhammad from Oklahoma State, has made significant contributions. Muhammad has been exceptional in shutting down his side of the field, while sophomore Elijah Jackson has shown great potential at cornerback during his first year as a full-time starter.
Senior Dominique Hampton leads the team in tackles and provides valuable leadership, while junior Mishael Powell has been solid in filling in when needed. Kamren Fabiculanan, the team leader in interceptions with two, has been a playmaker all over the field for the defense.
If the secondary continues at its current pace, the team could end the season with close to 20 interceptions, which would be a monumental achievement for the program. This would complement their high-powered offense and make Washington football a formidable team in the College Football Playoff and hopefully the National Championship game.
Next. Washington football: Lack of sack production is a cause for concern. dark