Washington vs Hawaii College Football Preview
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Updated: August 30, 2014
After a 9-4 season under new USC coach Steve Sarkisian, the 25th ranked Washington Huskies turn to former Boise State head man Chris Petersen to lead them through a difficult Pac-12. The Huskies’ offense will find difficulties replacing leading passer Keith Price, leading rusher Bishop Sankey (a second-round draft pick), and leading receiver Kevin Smith. Petersen will look to receivers Kasen Williams and Jaydon Mickens to help starting sophomore quarterback Cyler Miles.
The presumed starter in the backfield is sophomore Dwayne Washington, who averaged 7.1 yards per carry last year. The strength of the Huskies’ defense lies in the secondary, where they are loaded. The front seven of the defense will, however, struggle to stop the run. The Warriors are looking to improve on a very disappointing 2013 campaign, finishing 1-11 overall and 0-8 in the Mountain West. Under second-year head coach Norm Chow, Hawaii is looking to improve on both sides of the ball, finishing last season ranked 73rd in the country in points scored and 116th in points allowed. Senior quarterback Taylor Graham hopes to improve upon his 2013 season where he was benched after 3 games for the Warriors. The Warriors’ defense was one of the worst in the NCAA last year and are looking to improve in Chow’s third year with the team.
Keys to the Game
Washington
- To win, the Huskies’ new skill position players will need to be on the same page in Petersen’s system. If they are clicking, Washington should have no trouble putting up points on Hawaii’s lackluster defense. As Hawaii is a pass heavy team, look for the Huskies’ secondary to shine.
Hawaii
- Hawaii is going to need a lot out of Taylor Graham and the offense to stay competitive against a tough Pac-12 foe. The Warriors will have to minimalize mistakes and capitalize on any slipups by the Washington squad.
No Key Injuries to Date
Line/Odds: Washington by +21.5 points
Pac-12 dark horse Washington should have no trouble defeating a Hawaii team coming of a very poor season. Look for the Huskies to take an early lead and not look back to kick the Chris Petersen era off in Seattle.
