Washington beat the Beavers 27-21 in their season opener to improve to 1-0 on the season. Here are my takeaways.
1. O-Line MVP
Washington’s offensive line was absolutely incredible tonight. The Huskies offensive line moved the Beavers around all night. It was the physicality that Jimmy Lake talked about before the season that came true tonight. UW’s average offensive lineman stands at 6-foot-5 and weighs 323 pounds. That paid dividends tonight. Washington rushed 51 times for 267 yards and three touchdowns. It was the physicality of the offensive line that seemed to be missing at times last season. It will be interesting to see if they can repeat against stiffer competition.
2. Run Defense Struggles
Washington was missing two key starters on defense tonight. Defensive lineman Tuli Letuligasenoa and outside linebacker Laiatu Latu were out with presumed injuries. In saying that UW needs to find a way to be better at stopping the run. Jermar Jefferson is a really good running back but the Huskies have a lot of talent. Oregon State racked up 167 of their 252 total yards on the ground. Washington must be more physical on the defensive front moving forward.
3. Rough night for special teams
Washington’s special teams was a mess in their season opener. It started with a bad snap on a punt that resulted in a blocked punt that OSU returned for a touchdown to give the Beavers a 7-0 lead. There was also another bad snap that almost went over Race Porter’s head again. And that was just the start. The Huskies surrendered kick returns of 43 and 42 yards. To make matters worse, Peyton Henry who was reliable last season missed a 28-yard field goal. It’s one game but this is a major concern that the Huskies can’t afford to have happen moving forward.
4. Jimmy gets a W
Although the Huskies weren’t playing an elite opponent lets give some credit to Jimmy Lake for getting a win in his head coaching debut. It was the Huskies’ first game since the Las Vegas Bowl back in December of 2019 before the world turned upside down. So before we get too critical it was game one of a very long journey for this team and Jimmy Lake.
5. Running back by committee
Richard Newton didn’t get the work load that many expected. He led the team with 15 carries. But it was Sean McGrew’s 91 yards rushing that led the team. Also making an impact was Kamari Pleasant who finished with 61 yards and a TD. Moving forward I would expect Newton to get the most carries. But don’t be surprised if they ride the hot hand.
