Pac-10 Week 2 Notes and Observations: Washington Huskies
Washington Huskies 1-1 Overall (0-0 Conference)
This Week’s Score: Washington 42 – Idaho 23
Next Week’s Opponent: USC
The nation’s longest losing streak (15 games) came to an end in Seattle last Saturday, as Washington blasted Idaho to give coach Steve Sarkisian his first win at UW. For me, it felt like the losing streak ended week one vs. LSU because of the inspired effort put forth by the Huskies, but a win must feel awfully good no matter who it’s against.
Offensively, Washington is much further along than I ever could have predicted. Jake Locker has complete control of the offense right now. I never doubted his physical ability, but I was waiting to see if he could become a true field general, and right now, the answer is an emphatic yes. Sarkisian has done wonders for his decision-making and poise, as he routinely delivered the ball accurately and on time against Idaho (17/25 253 yards, 3 TDs). The thing I loved most about Locker’s performance was the fact that he hit nine different receivers, and that kind of balance should keep good defenses off balance.
The running game was a bit under-utilized, but I still came away impressed with Chris Polk’s performance (19 carries, 80 yds, 1 TD). Polk looks like a true feature back for UW, and it appears Johri Fogerson will give the Huskies a change of pace with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
As much as there is to like on offense, the defense may be what holds the Huskies back this season. I was particularly frustrated by the play of the secondary, as Idaho was able to gain 349 yards through the air and that is unacceptable. I understand that the coaches are shuffling players around in the defensive backfield, but it is critical that they find the right combination soon because that part of the defense is a glaring weakness right now.
It would help if the DBs benefited from a more consistent pass rush. I saw glimpses of it Saturday (3 sacks by UW against Idaho), but the d-line needs to be more consistent. I will be interested to see how often Nick Holt decides to blitz, because the four man rush had a little trouble generating pressure against Idaho’s QBs. I do love the Husky linebackers, and I think they will continue to flourish this season.
Now comes another measuring stick for this Washington program. Will Sark, Holt and the rest of the coaching staff have some surprises in store for this week’s familiar opponent? We shall see, as the USC Trojans head to Seattle fresh off of a huge win at the Horseshoe. The Huskies may be catching SC at the right time (maybe a letdown game for SC?), but it will take a near-perfect game for UW to pull off the upset.
RAMMSTEIN UBER ALLES!
I learned a whole lot thank you :)
The other day, while I was at work, my cousin stole my apple ipad and tested to see if it can survive a 30 foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My iPad is now broken and she has 83 views. I know this is completely off topic but I had to share it with someone!
“Thanks a lot for providing individuals with an exceptionally brilliant chance to read critical reviews from here. It’s usually so superb plus jam-packed with amusement for me and my office acquaintances to visit your web site more than 3 times a week to see the latest items you have got. And of course, I’m just actually impressed with all the wonderful things you give. Certain 3 areas in this post are basically the simplest we have all had.”
I just added this webpage to my google reader, great stuff. Cannot get enough!
the table beds which we have a year ago had already broken down, it is mostly made up of plastic*
luxury hotels are always expensive but they offer some very attractive features and packages..
The Zune concentrates on being a Portable Media Player. Not a web browser. Not a game machine. Maybe in the future it’ll do even better in those areas, but for now it’s a fantastic way to organize and listen to your music and videos, and is without peer in that regard. The iPod’s strengths are its web browsing and apps. If those sound more compelling, perhaps it is your best choice.
I adore your wordpress web template, wherever did you get a hold of it from?
I and also my guys came checking the great suggestions on the blog and then all of the sudden came up with a horrible suspicion I never thanked the web site owner for those tips. All the young boys came warmed to read them and have in effect unquestionably been using these things. Thank you for actually being really helpful as well as for considering varieties of fabulous ideas most people are really wanting to understand about. My personal sincere regret for not saying thanks to you earlier.
Hey there! I know this is somewhat off-topic but I needed to ask. Does managing a well-established blog such as yours require a massive amount work? I’m brand new to running a blog however I do write in my diary every day. I’d like to start a blog so I will be able to share my own experience and views online. Please let me know if you have any suggestions or tips for new aspiring bloggers. Appreciate it!
I have just go over facts provided on this website. I must say We’re exceedingly carved when using the condition of material. It includes me a lot of acumen about my wisdom. Having been do not know this certainly before during my life. Thank you very much for the. We’re looking forward for added updates. Continue the good function.