From: Sara Diggins (American-Statesman)
The national championship is set. The #1 Michigan Wolverines clash with yet another feel-good story, the #2 Washington Huskies. Last year, UM fell victim to the heroics of Max Duggan and TCU. Many see the same story unfolding, a “Cinderella” team getting to the championship, just to be throttled by a powerhouse. However, Washington is not TCU. The Huskies have transcended the Cinderella narrative, and stand poised and determined, ready to raise the CFP title in Houston this coming Monday.
Sweet Like Sugar
QB Michael Penix Jr. is the leader both on and off the field for UW. On the field, he stays composed within the pocket, always ready to push the ball downfield. Off the field, his quiet confidence permeates through the locker room. The Washington signal caller called a players-only meeting before their Sugar Bowl bout with Texas. According to the ESPN broadcast, it was not a meeting to hype up his team before battle. He delivered a confident message, telling his team they deserved to be here, and to cherish the 60 minutes they had in front of them.
It came through on the field, as Washington was buzzing from the opening kick. Their heavily criticized defense stopped Texas on the first drive. Then their offense got the ball, and the fireworks started. After a quick first down, Penix took the first of many deep shots. He connected with Ja’Lynn Polk for 77 yards, and just like that, Washington was on the 2 yard-line. Dillon Johnson punched it in, and the Huskies never looked back, securing a 37-31 victory.
From: Steph Chambers (Getty Images)
Prove 'Em Wrong
The Sugar Bowl was not a one-off occurrence for the Huskies. All year long, doubters questioned Washington. Yet, time and time again, they came through in the biggest moments. Not many people thought UW could beat Oregon once, let alone twice. So what did they do? Beat Oregon twice. They went on the road to Oregon State with a banged-up receiving core. The then 10-0 Huskies were underdogs in Corvallis. Despite all setbacks, Washington gritted out a victory in the pouring rain. In southern California, tied at 32 going into the fourth quarter, Washington outscored USC 10-0. Every single week, Washington showed the country how resilient and tough they were.
The Washington Huskies’ hard work has led them to this game in the College Football Playoff Championship. Their confidence is unwavering, and their determination is unmatched. Who knows what happens on Monday, but it is certain the Huskies will give Michigan all they can handle for 60 minutes straight.
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