The Washington Huskies needed a statement win after a brutal loss in Ann Arbor. They were desperate for a victory over a ranked opponent — one that would keep their playoff hopes alive.
They did just that, dispatching No. 23 Illinois in front of the home crowd at Husky Stadium. The 42–25 win sets up the Washington program to face Oregon with a potential major bowl bid on the line, provided they can take care of business in three November matchups where they’ll likely be double-digit favorites.
Senior quarterback Luke Altmyer and the Illinois offense found some success throughout the game, but the Husky defense kept the pressure on and made timely plays to take away scoring opportunities.
Defensive Line:
Illinois managed to stay balanced early in the contest before the Washington offense blew the doors open, forcing the Illini to become one-dimensional. They found some success on the ground, but the defensive line held its own. The Huskies allowed just 139 rushing yards on 4.8 yards per carry.
Grade: B-
Edge:
Although the Huskies didn’t record a sack, the edge players were active and disciplined in setting the perimeter. The Illini offense struggled to find success running outside thanks to solid edge containment.
Grade: B
Linebackers:
Defensive coordinator Brian Walters dialed up pressure throughout the game, sending blitzes from multiple angles. Both Deven Bryant and Xe’ree Alexander recorded tackles for loss, and the group held up well in pass coverage. True freshman Zaydrius Rainey-Sale was particularly effective in coverage — nearly coming away with an interception and forcing the fumble that led to Tacario Davis’ pick.
Grade: B+
Cornerbacks:
The corners came up huge, producing two second-half takeaways that sealed the victory. Davis nearly had a second interception — a pick in the back of the end zone wiped out by a questionable call from the back official. Rahshawn Clark also cemented himself as the go-to slot corner, a development that should concern the rest of the Big Ten now that Washington appears to have addressed one of its few defensive weaknesses.
Grade: A
Safeties:
Like the offensive line, the safeties had a major bounce-back performance. They tackled well, stayed disciplined, and were much improved in coverage.
Grade: B+
