The Washington Huskies held their sixth practice of spring 2023. and the Washington offense picked up where they left off on Friday with a dominating performance over the defense. That’s not to say that the defense didn’t have their moments. But here are three takeaways from Mondays practice:
Takeaway 1: Penix’s Pinpoint Accuracy is Amazing.
No matter what you were expecting Michael Penix over performs. Penix looked every part of the Heisman candidate he is billed to be this year for the Huskies. Penix covered every corner of the field with throws throughout practice. Dropping balls in to a maneuvering Rome Odunze or firing a frozen rope into the hands of Ja’Lynn Polk. Penix was in control and seemed to have the ball on a string. He and Odunze seemed to really heat up late connecting on a couple plays that only a few duos in the nation could make. With huge expectations for this season Penix seems on pace to be that guy for one more season in Seattle.
Takeaway 2: Rome Odunze looks the part of a first round draft pick.
The blonde hair was gone, but the top tier, NFL level talent hasn’t gone anywhere. Rome and Penix seemed to be right where they had left off as the ball seemed to find its way into the hands of number 1 every other play. Odunze’s ability to catch the ball while moving and contorting his body should be a standout factor, not just for Husky fans, but for NFL scouts.
Odunze’s phenomenal ability to track the ball into his arms helped him complete the play of the practice on a ball thrown almost 60 yards resulting in a Odunze touchdown.
The incredible completion prompted Jalen McMillan to say “It’s easy bro! It’s easy bro!” Odunze will be the leader of a stacked wide receiver room looking to make their mark on the CFB landscape.
With a talent like Odunze to cover, teams are going to have their hands full with a future first round pick.
Takeaway 3: Both Sides of the line had their moments.
Both refilling the offensive line and gaining a presence on the defensive line were big tasks for the Huskies this year. With the two groups going head to head at practice we got to see both sides flashing potential for the upcoming season.
Early in the day the defense seemed to be winning. Pressure was present on both Penix and Morris every snap and Morris was “brought down” a handful of times.
Despite all the sacks, the most impressive play was Milton Hopkins making a huge play in coverage and wrapping up an open field tackle on Nixon on 3rd and goal to keep the offense out of the end zone.
Despite the defense’s early form the O-Line seemed to pick it up with time.
Whether it was the combinations of players or just improval with time by the end of practice the O- Line was looking formidable.
Opening up huge wholes for the running backs, and giving Penix and Morris time in the pocket, the O-Line finished strong.
One final note: the Washington RB room is standing-room-only. Dillon Johnson had a bit of a limp that kept him out for most of the practice but the rest of the RBs look fantastic.
