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Michael Penix Jr. vs. Caleb Williams: The QB showdown we’ve been waiting for

By Jonathan Garris

STANFORD, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 28: Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Washington Huskies looks on from the sidelines against the Stanford Cardinal during the first quarter at Stanford Stadium on October 28, 2023 in Stanford, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
STANFORD, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 28: Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Washington Huskies looks on from the sidelines against the Stanford Cardinal during the first quarter at Stanford Stadium on October 28, 2023 in Stanford, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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Husky fans have eagerly awaited the highly anticipated matchup between Caleb Williams and Michael Penix Jr. since before the season even began.

Last year, unfortunately, the Washington Huskies and USC Trojans did not have the opportunity to face off against one another, which would have undoubtedly been a phenomenal showdown.

Looking back at last season, Caleb Williams showcased his exceptional skills by completing 66% of his passes for an impressive 4,537 yards, 42 touchdowns, and a mere 5 interceptions. He led USC to an outstanding 11-3 overall record, including an impressive 8-1 conference record. However, their journey ended with a loss to Utah in the PAC-12 Championship Game, despite Williams’ remarkable performance. His exceptional season culminated in him being awarded the prestigious Heisman Trophy.

Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr. had an equally impressive campaign, completing 65% of his passes for 4,641 yards, 31 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. He led the Huskies to an impressive 11-2 record, culminating in a thrilling victory over Texas in the Alamo Bowl. Penix’s remarkable season earned him a respectable 8th-place finish in the Heisman voting.

If these two quarterbacks had faced off last year, it would have provided an exciting opportunity to determine who truly reigns supreme. However, the wait is finally over, and this Saturday’s game promises to be a battle for the ages.

Fast forward to this season, and the USC Trojans currently hold a 7-2 record, with slim chances of making it to the College Football Playoff. Nevertheless, Caleb Williams has continued to impress, completing 68% of his passes for 2,646 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only 4 interceptions. However, there has been speculation surrounding his future, with questions about whether he will sit out or remain at USC to capitalize on NIL opportunities.

On the other side, Michael Penix Jr. has also been exceptional, completing 68% of his passes for 2,945 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. The Huskies are currently undefeated at 8-0 and have complete control over their destiny for the remainder of the season.

This highly anticipated matchup between two of college football’s finest quarterbacks is expected to be a battle for the ages. Despite Penix’s recent shaky performances, there is no doubt that he has the ability to bounce back and prove that the gap between him and Caleb Williams is not as significant as some may believe. The stage is set for an epic showdown that will captivate the entire country.

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