The Washington Huskies are now 14-0, one game away from immortality. Looking to win title #3, the first since 1991, Michael Penix Jr. stepped up big in the Sugar Bowl win over Texas. In the(37-31 win, Penix went 29-38 for 430 yards and two scores. He added 31 yards on the ground.
With a steadily improving run game that All-American T’Vondre Sweat and Texas largely shut down, the offense came had to come from Penix. He set the tone early with his first pass to Ja’Lynn Polk (5 catches, 122 yards, 1 TD) and didn’t look back.
Michael Penix with an absolute dime🎯https://t.co/W1Ncbf53rE
— Grace (@gracesportakes) January 2, 2024
The decision-making and pinpoint accuracy were present all game. This was most apparent in the third quarter where Penix completed 11 passes from his 12 completion streak. As a team, the Huskies started to control the game, winning the quarter 10-0.
If the Washington offense was slowing down, The Archer responded with a downfield strike to Rome Odunze (6 catches, 125 yards) or another receiver. Credit has to go to them as they created separation all night and made very impressive contested catches.
Michael Penix Jr. puts the football wherever he wants. It’s truly a work of art. pic.twitter.com/SPX2sFQn0z
— David Cone (@davidadamcone) January 2, 2024
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In addition to his outstanding passing, Penix’s 31 rushing yards was a season high. When the team needed something on the ground, he stepped up. He also used his feet to avoid pass rushers, as he didn’t take any sacks.
Despite Texas never possessing the lead and a 13-point fourth-quarter lead, the win ended in doubt for Washington. The game was back and forth through the first half, and the stars started to align for Texas.
First, on third down, RB Dillon Johnson got injured, giving 40 additional seconds to Texas. There was a false start, then a kick-catch interference penalty on the following punt. Later, Quinn Ewers found Jordan Whittington for 41 yards downfield. Texas got as close as the 12-yard line with 15 seconds left.
The defense, aided by questionable playcalling from Steve Sarkisian held, but it was too close for comfort. It would have been a shame if The Archers amazing season and performance ended like that.
After the game, Penix stayed humble in the press conference. Once again he complimented his teammates and coaches, although he added to it by shouting out his hometown of Tampa and a friend in prison.
The final test will be against the best defense in the country, the Michigan Wolverines next Monday. After shutting down Alabama in a thriller, that will be the stiffest challenge yet for the Huskies. Time will tell if Penix cements his legacy as one of the all-time greats with a championship ring on is finger.
