Defense wins the Utah State game

Washington beat Utah State 16-14 on a late interception by nickelback Rahshawn Clark, who returned it 57 yards to seal the victory.

Offense struggles, defense delivers

The Husky defense has stayed enthusiastic and effective while the offense has struggled to get going through two games.

“I think our defense did some exceptional things, continuing to take the ball away at a high level”

Tied for first in interceptions

Washington ranks tied for first nationally with 5 interceptions and tied for third with Notre Dame in turnover margin at plus-6.

Injuries haven't slowed them down

The defense has remained tough despite losing two starters, defensive tackle Elinneus Davis and cornerback Manny Karnley, to leg injuries.

Run defense is suffocating

The longest gain by any opposing running back through two games has been just 8 yards by Washington State's Kirby Vorhees.

Jacob Lane leads edge rush

Fourth-year player Jacob Lane has started both games with 6 tackles and is tied for the team lead with 3 tackles for loss.

Freshman Fruean shows promise

Freshman starter Ramzak Fruean has 6 tackles and a pass break-up. He's overdue for his first sack given his playmaking ability.

Colman-Brusa lives up to hype

Freshman defensive tackle Derek Colman-Brusa ranks fourth on the team with 7 tackles, 2 TFLs, a sack, and deflected a pass that became an interception.

Jacob Manu is everywhere

Fifth-year linebacker Jacob Manu ranks second on the team with 13 tackles, including a TFL, a sack, and a quarterback hurry in two starts.

Rainey-Sale brings big play potential

Zaydrius Rainey-Sale won the starting linebacker job and has 3 tackles. He's always a turnover waiting to happen with his speed and athleticism.

Dylan Robinson makes an impact

Second-year cornerback Dylan Robinson has been noticeable with 9 tackles, third on the team, and one of the Huskies' 5 interceptions.

Karnley injury opens door for Jones

Virginia transfer Manny Karnley will likely miss the Eastern Washington game with a soft-tissue injury. Jeron Jones will replace him at cornerback.

Alex McLaughlin is playing like a pro

Safety Alex McLaughlin leads the team with 15 tackles, 3 TFLs, 2 sacks, 2 interceptions and 2 pass break-ups. He's playing like he's NFL bound.

“He has a fifth year he could use at the UW in 2027, but he's playing like he's only NFL bound after this season”

Dillard-Allen completes safety duo

Rylon Dillard-Allen gives Washington two hard-hitting safeties alongside McLaughlin. He has 5 tackles and a pass break-up in two starts.

Nickelback rotation stays flexible

Freshman Jeron Jones started at nickel in game one, gave way to Rahshawn Clark in game two, and will likely start at corner against Eastern Washington.