Washington Huskies Season Preview: Year Two in The Big Ten

Top Storylines

• Learning to compete in the Big Ten: The Huskies’ move to the Big Ten means they must adapt to a more physical style of play. After a season of transition, the team has focused on rebuilding both the offensive and defensive lines through recruiting and the transfer portal. The success of this transition, particularly in the trenches, will be a major factor in how they fare against Big Ten stalwarts.
• The Return of the Quarterback: Demond Williams Jr. showed immense promise in his limited starts last season. With a full offseason to prepare as the undisputed starter, he has the potential to become a dynamic playmaker. His ability to lead the offense and protect the football will be crucial for the Huskies’ success.
• Offensive and Defensive Line Rebuild: Both the offensive and defensive lines have seen significant changes. The offensive line has a new look with the return of key players and the addition of a promising transfer in Carver Willis. The defensive side of the ball is being transformed by new defensive coordinator Ryan Walters, who is bringing in his own players and a new scheme to create a more aggressive, disruptive unit.

Key Players to Watch

• Demond Williams Jr., QB: The sophomore quarterback is the face of the offense. He showed flashes of brilliance with a high completion rate and strong touchdown-to-interception ratio in his starts last year. The hope is he can take a big leap forward with a full season as the starter.
• Jonah Coleman, RB: The senior running back is the leader of the backfield. He has a chance to be a 1,000-yard rusher and a major weapon for the Huskies’ offense. His consistent production will be essential for balancing the attack.
• Ephesians Prysock, CB: A senior transfer, Prysock is an elite defensive back who is expected to anchor the secondary. His talent and experience will be key in a conference known for its strong passing attacks and big-play receivers.
• Zach Durfee, EDGE: The senior edge rusher has a high motor and a knack for getting to the quarterback. He will be a key piece of Ryan Walters’ new defensive scheme and will be counted on to create pressure and disrupt opposing offenses.

Key Games

• vs. Ohio State (September 27th): The Buckeyes come to Seattle in what will be a massive early-season test for the Huskies. Ohio State is a national championship contender and a home win over a team of this caliber would send a huge statement to the rest of the conference and the country.
• at Michigan (October 18th): A rematch of the national championship game, this time in the Big House. This road game against a top-tier Big Ten opponent will be a true measure of how well the Huskies have adapted to the physicality of the conference. It will be a defining moment in their season.
• vs. Oregon (November 29th): The rivalry game returns to Husky Stadium at the end of the season with potential Big Ten title implications. Both teams are now in the same conference, and a win over the Ducks would not only be a huge rivalry victory but could also determine who earns a spot in the Big Ten championship game.

Final Prediction

The Huskies will be a much-improved team this year, but the brutal Big Ten schedule, especially their road games, will be a tough test. The team’s defensive improvements and home-field advantage will lead to some surprise victories.

Final Record: 8-4 Losses to: Ohio State, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Oregon. Wins over: The rest of their schedule, including a tough victory at Washington State and home wins over Illinois and Rutgers.