Against Texas, Washington’s Pass Rush Will Be Crucial
When facing the Longhorns’ offensive line, the Huskies could have the upper hand.
This season, the pass rush of the Washington Huskies has been under intense criticism. The Huskies had the fewest number of sacks in the Pac-12 during the regular season, with just 19, despite being headed by Bralen Trice, a projected first-round choice in the NFL draft.
Trice, who according to Pro Football Focus has a national record 68 pressures, and the rest of Washington’s pass rush, however, could still be able to outmaneuver Texas’ offensive line.
This season, the Longhorns have given up 26 sacks, which is 11th in the Big 12. Co-defensive coordinators Chuck Morrell and William Inge may try to take advantage of the erratic protection.
Quinn Ewers, a sophomore quarterback, may cause problems for Washington’s defensive line, as he did in the 2022 Alamo Bowl. Zach Durfee, a potential edge rusher, has joined the position depth, so the Huskies may be able to give Ewers additional reasons to be uncomfortable.
Edge rushers coach Eric Schmidt stated, “Genetically, he’s maybe the best in the room just by who can run the fastest, who can jump the highest, who’s the strongest, you know what I mean.” “I think he might be pound for pound that guy.”
