Spring Game Type: 1st Team Offense/2nd Team Defense (Huskies) vs. 1st Team Defense/2nd Team Offense (Dawgs)
Final Score: Dawgs 31, Huskies 14
Hopes are high for Washington after the conclusion of spring activities. While contending for a North Division title might be farfetched, a productive spring proved that these Huskies are still feeding off the momentum from their Holiday Bowl victory.
Offense:
All eyes will be on Jake Locker’s replacement in 2011, and if the spring was any indication, it looks like it will be Keith Price. Price, alternating between the first and second teams, lit up the spring game box score, connecting on 20 of 28 passes for 212 yards and three touchdowns.
While Jermaine Kearse will certainly be the No. 1 receiver come fall, senior Cody Burns caught the eyes of many, hauling in four passes for 102 yards which included a 70 yard strike for a touchdown for Nate Montana.
The Huskies first team running game didn’t spark much attention in the spring game, gaining only 72 yards on the ground. Chris Polk led the charge for the Huskies with seven carriers and 22 yards.
Grade: A-
Defense:
Washington’s defensive line appears to be its most promising area on this side of the ball.
Defensive end Josh Shirley has become the talk of the town after his outstanding spring. He capped off a successful session with three tackles, including one tackle for a loss.
The secondary has been a bit of a concern for Washington this offseason, but the returning talent has apparently impressed Steve Sarkasian. In the spring game, the first team defense held the Huskies to 14 points, with several impressive plays throughout the game.
While the Huskies defense still needs some work, they are certainly showings areas of improvement.
Grade: B-
