Washington State Football: 6 takeaways from 34-20 win over Oregon

Minshew is Money

When Washington State needed him, Gardner Minshew stepped up. Yes, he threw two interceptions, let’s not forget Oregon is still a good team. Minshew also threw four touchdowns. If you are a football fan, it’s a joy to watch him stand in the pocket and run through his receiver check downs. He has such a good feel for his receivers and what they can do.

Take the TD pass in the second quarter to Max Borghi as a good example, which you can see here. It’s a great play to break down. Minshew takes a shotgun snap in a rare WSU formation of two backs in the backfield. His first option is on the left, Tay Martin, who is covered on a fade route to the back corner of the end zone.

Next on the check down list is Travell Harris who lined up on the right side slot. Harris drew almost triple coverage on a post route because the linebacker dropped back into coverage. Dezmon Patmon, the receiver lined up on the far right drew single coverage on a similar route to Harris. Patmon was still an option, but he was too close to Harris and it would require a pinpoint bullet from Minshew to pull off a completion.

The running back to Minshew’s right, Borghi was the fourth option. When the running back sprinted out to the right, there was no one left to cover him. The right side linebacker can’t get to Borghi when the pass is caught. Then the WSU running back juked the defender out of his shoes and took off down the cleared out, right sideline for six points.

After the game, Minshew’s poise once again shone through. The field was utter chaos yet Minshew, with a huge smile, was able to handle interviews with the same calm he exhibits in the pocket.