Five Crucial Elements For Washington To Beat Michigan
When the Washington Huskies last competed for a national championship, they were at the Rose Bowl in California, looking across the field at the Michigan Wolverines, whom they defeated 34–14.
Though this Texas city’s NRG Stadium will host the game on Monday, coach Kalen DeBoer’s team will still be able to see the Wolverines across the field. This is the way the Huskies can win the national championship.
Put an end to the run
Reversing course This season, Blake Corum has emerged as Michigan’s main offensive weapon, racking up over 1,100 yards of rushing yards and 25 touchdowns. Texas averaged 6.4 yards per carry in the Sugar Bowl, and Washington found it difficult to stop them. When Michigan throws the ball away, the Huskies must figure out how to make some bad plays.
In order to slow down the game and manage the clock, Michigan plans to run the ball and keep quarterback Michael Penix Jr. off the field. The Huskies will be able to pressure quarterback J.J. McCarthy into difficult throws if they can figure out a way to force the Wolverines into clear-cut passing downs.
Take on
This season, the Huskies have had trouble stopping the opposition’s ball carriers on the ground, but they appear to have solved that problem recently. The defense needs to put on another solid defensive performance after limiting yards after contact in the Pac-12 title game and the Sugar Bowl.
Have faith in Michael Penix
In the Sugar Bowl, Washington’s star quarterback may have had his best college performance, throwing for over 400 yards and leading his team to the national championship. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb has relied on left-hander Penix to step up in crucial situations throughout the season, and Penix has never let him down.
Interact in the Entrench
The Michigan defense, which employs the same game plan that has made the Baltimore Ravens one of the best defenses in the NFL, does a good job of masking pressure. In the Sugar Bowl, Washington’s offensive line demonstrated a remarkable ability to decipher intricate blitzes; however, accurate communication is necessary to ensure Penix stays upright.
Have Faith in the Recipients
The Wolverines allow just 150 passing yards per game, which ranks them as the second-best pass defense in college football. This season, Michigan has been able to stifle every passing attack it has encountered thanks to the play of sophomore cornerback Will Johnson. However, a trio of receivers like the one Washington brings to the table has not tested the Big Ten defense.
Penix can throw a lot of balls into small windows and have faith that his receivers will come down with a big play because Rome Odunze, Jalen McMillan, and Ja’Lynn Polk are his targets. Every one of Washington’s pass catchers has demonstrated that they can perform when called upon, regardless of the circumstances.
