Washington Football: 3 Takeaways from Huskies 21-7 win at Utah

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SALT LAKE CITY, UT: Jaylen Dixon #25 of the Utah Utes can’t hold onto the ball while being defended by Jordan Miller #23 of the Washington Huskies in the second half of a game at Rice-Eccles Stadium on September 15, 2018. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr/Getty Images) /

2) The Husky defense is legit

The Huskies identity coming into the season had centered around a high-powered offense, led by Browning, a solid group of receivers, and Gaskin. In the first game against Auburn, it was the defense who kept the Huskies in the game and gave them a chance to win late.

Against FCS opponent North Dakota, the Huskies allowed just 7 points and smothered the Fighting Hawks most of the day. Saturday was no different. The Utes offense was able to gain just 261 yards on 68 plays, averaging just 3.8 per play.

After scoring an early touchdown to tie the game at 7, the Utes could not sustain any productive drives. In the fourth quarter, Utah started inside the Washington 30 yard line twice. Both drives ended with Washington stopping Utah on downs.

The Washington defense has shown an ability to swarm to the football. They were equally tough against the pass and the run Saturday. Utah has had trouble offensively early this season, but much credit should go to the stingy Washington defense. In the first two games, the defense forced just one turnover. On Saturday, the Huskies had three takeaways, including two fumble recoveries by Taylor Rapp.

They have used a physical style to wear down offenses this season. They kept up again this week. Last night, the Huskies pounded Utah’s star receiver, Britain Covey, hitting him early and often. They will need a similar performance against #23 Arizona State, who will probably be unranked this week after a 28-21 loss to San Diego State.

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