By Okon Ekpenyong

The University of Washington Huskies ranked #3 in the nation and accomplished an undefeated season in their final year in the Pac-12 conference. They secured their 18th conference championship by defeating their biggest rival, #5 Oregon, with a score of 34-31. This significant feat marks a historic conclusion to their tenure in the Pac-12, as the team is scheduled to transition to the Big 12 conference in 2024. 

I recently attended the University of Washington football game against California on September 23rd in Seattle and was impressed by the performance of the Huskies. The team played offensively and defensively well, making for an exciting game. Moreover, over the past decade, I was fascinated by the recent success of the PAC 12 conference teams such as Oregon, Washington, USC, and UCLA. I had the opportunity to visit the Husky Stadium and take a tour of the Husky Nation campus, which proved to be a great learning experience.

After the final game, the Pac-12 Conference will undergo significant changes. Oregon, UCLA, USC, and Washington will leave for the Big Ten, while Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah will join the Big 12. Cal and Stanford will become a part of the ACC. Finally, Oregon State and Washington State will soon join the Mountain West Conference. 

The Huskies’ latest win will undoubtedly secure their place in the upcoming College Football Playoffs. This will be their second appearance since their devastating loss to Alabama in 2016. This year’s team is unique, thanks to a quarterback who has honed his skills and an offensive line that works harmoniously with the running backs and receivers to move the ball efficiently.

The Huskies started the game strong, leading 20-3 at halftime, but the Ducks made a comeback by scoring 21 unanswered points. However, Washington regained momentum in the fourth quarter, scoring two touchdowns and receiving a solid performance from quarterback Penix. He completed 27 of 39 passes for 319 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Dillon Johnson also had an impressive game, rushing 28 times for 152 yards and two touchdowns. His exceptional performance helped the Huskies establish a dominant running game.

The playoff team has been finalized, and the University of Washington’s Huskies are well-prepared and confident to perform exceptionally. With the team’s commitment and support from their fans, they are set to make an impressive appearance in the playoffs. One thing is sure: the Huskies have left an outstanding mark in the Pac-12.

Despite both teams changing conferences, these two schools will continue their rivalry in the Big Ten next year.

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