In an electrifying Pac-12 encounter on Saturday night in Seattle, No. 5 Washington managed to stave off an underdog challenge by Arizona State, securing a 15-7 win. The pivotal moment came in the fourth quarter when Mishael Powell showcased his defensive acumen, intercepting a pass and sprinting 89 yards to score the touchdown that put the Huskies ahead.
Despite being touted for their offensive firepower, Washington Football (7-0, 4-0 Pac-12) had its struggles throughout the game, committing a total of four turnovers. Michael Penix Jr., a leading contender for the Heisman Trophy, faced pressure throughout the night. Completing 27 out of 42 passes, he amassed 275 yards but also threw two interceptions. In contrast, Grady Gross was a pillar of consistency for the Huskies, successfully converting three field goals.
This win extends the Huskies’ streak to an impressive 14 games, with only top-tier Georgia (24 games) maintaining a longer active winning stretch.
On the Arizona State side, Cam Skattebo made his mark with a touchdown run. Trenton Bourguet, their quarterback, had a challenging day, completing 26 out of 47 passes for 196 yards. His crucial interception turned the tide of the game in favor of Washington. Defensively, however, the Sun Devils showcased resilience. Shamari Simmons made notable contributions with an interception and fumble recovery, and both Ro Torrence and C.J. Fite made significant plays, intercepting and recovering a fumble, respectively.
The Sun Devils, despite their defensive efforts, were outpaced in yardage, garnering 341 to Washington’s 388. But they did manage to execute 23 more plays. Their kicker, Dario Longhetto, had a night to forget, missing two crucial field goals.
For the Huskies, Ja’Lynn Polk emerged as a go-to receiver, hauling in nine catches for a total of 102 yards. This win over Arizona State is notable, considering Washington has managed to defeat them only three times in their last 16 encounters.
The game’s momentum shifted when Gross nailed a 47-yarder, narrowing the deficit to 7-6 with just over 12 minutes on the clock. Arizona State looked poised to answer back. However, when faced with a crucial fourth-and-3 on the Washington 12-yard line, Bourguet’s pass was snatched by Powell, who raced to the end zone. Though Washington’s attempt to extend the lead with a two-point conversion was thwarted, they still held a 12-7 advantage.
Washington’s confidence grew, and on their subsequent possession, they traversed 62 yards in eight plays, setting the stage for another Gross field goal. Arizona State’s final attempt to reclaim the lead fizzled out on a failed fourth-and-15 attempt from their own 48.
The Huskies, recognized nationally for their offensive prowess, ranking third in total offense and tied for fifth in scoring, had a subdued night. Their first score came just seconds before halftime, courtesy of Gross’ 24-yard field goal. They were plagued by turnovers, with Penix throwing two interceptions and another coming from a mishandled handoff.
Arizona State’s lone touchdown was a testament to Skattebo’s grit, bulldozing his way for a 1-yard score in the latter part of the first half.