The hangover effect was real for No. 5 Washington. Almost too real.
After a thrilling 36-33 victory over Oregon last week, one of the most memorable games of the season, the Huskies returned home to face Arizona State, a team with a 1-5 record. In a surprising turn of events, Washington narrowly avoided an upset, winning 15-7 to maintain their undefeated status.
While Washington has been known for their explosive offense this season, it was a critical defensive play that saved the day and allowed them to secure the win and a 7-0 record.
With a 7-6 lead and possession deep in Washington territory, Arizona State decided to gamble on fourth-and-3 from the Washington 12. Unfortunately for the Sun Devils, Trenton Bourguet’s pass was intercepted by Washington’s Mishael Powell and returned for an 89-yard go-ahead touchdown, ultimately sealing the victory for the Huskies.
Prior to this game, Washington’s high-powered offense ranked top five in the nation in yards per play (8.49), total offense (543.7 yards per game), and scoring offense (44.3). However, they struggled against Arizona State, failing to gain momentum and perform at their usual level. It was a significant departure from their outstanding performance against the Ducks just a week earlier.
Washington’s star quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., the current favorite to win the Heisman Trophy, experienced three turnovers in the first half – two interceptions and a fumble. Fortunately for the Huskies, the Sun Devils failed to capitalize on the interceptions, one of which occurred in the end zone. However, ASU took advantage of Penix’s fumble during a botched exchange, resulting in Cameron Skattebo’s one-yard touchdown plunge and a 7-0 lead for Arizona State.
Washington managed to score a field goal just before halftime, but Arizona State maintained a slim lead throughout the game. The halftime score was 7-3, and it remained that way for the entire third quarter, with Arizona State’s offense struggling to capitalize on their opportunities in Washington’s territory.
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After Arizona State wasted over seven minutes on the clock, Dario Longhetto missed his second field goal attempt of the day, a 43-yarder. Early in the fourth quarter, ASU failed to convert on fourth down after reaching the Washington 30-yard line.
Suddenly, the game turned around with the game-winning interception return for a touchdown. Following the turnover, ASU’s offense struggled again and was forced to punt. Washington capitalized on the opportunity by adding a field goal, extending their lead to 15-7 with just 3:16 left on the clock.
Despite the score, Arizona State still had a chance to tie the game. Bourguet led the offense to midfield, but the drive ultimately ended in another turnover on downs for the Sun Devils, their fourth of the game. This signaled the end of ASU’s upset bid and allowed Washington to breathe a sigh of relief.
It was clear that the Huskies were affected by the previous week’s emotional victory over Oregon, making this game much closer than expected. Nonetheless, the most important thing is that Washington found a way to win and remains near the top of the rankings with their sights set on a Pac-12 title and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Next week, the Huskies will face Stanford on the road, followed by a challenging schedule that includes matchups against USC, Utah, Oregon State, and Washington State.
