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Washington vs Utah recap: 3 things we learned

By Rob Wolkenbrod

Oct 29, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver John Ross (1) runs after a reception as Utah Utes linebacker Kavika Luafatasaga (55) pursues the play during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver John Ross (1) runs after a reception as Utah Utes linebacker Kavika Luafatasaga (55) pursues the play during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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What were some of the takeaways from Washington and Utah’s game from Saturday afternoon?

On Saturday afternoon, two one of the best schools in the Pac-12, No. 4 Washington and No. 17 Utah, faced off. This game would have plenty of implications on the conference and upcoming College Football Playoff ranking.

This contest would be hard-fought with Washington controlling for most of the game. Utah even held the lead at one point. However, it would be the Huskies standing tall by winning 31-24. What are some of the takeaways from this conference matchup?

The new Joe Williams

Remember how Utah running back Joe Williams retired in September? He struggled mightily after playing just two games, and decided to call it quits. But, he can back earlier this month and has since looked like a new man.

Through the past three weeks, including the Washington game, the senior tailback has had nearly 650 yards on the ground. It has made him look unstoppable and dangerous on almost every carry.

Williams may get some looks from NFL scouts after this. He could be playing over his head, but if it can result in being drafted next spring, then his unretirement may have been a blessing in disguise.

Jake Browning’s ups and downs

Washington quarterback Jake Browning has been called one of the nation’s most efficient at his position. The first six weeks certainly proved that. But over the past two games, including against Utah, he has struggled a bit.

After completing 63-percent of his passes, the sophomore has put up 50 and 63 over the past two weeks, respectively. He also threw an interception against Utah, just his third of the year. It shouldn’t be anything of concern other than a blip on the radar, though. However, if this goes into the California game, then it will be worth monitoring. Sound production from Browning is needed to not only guide this offense, but keep the team perfect and in the College Football Playoff hunt.

Washington stays alive

To make the College Football Playoff, Washington probably needs to stay perfect. The Pac-12 hasn’t been valued like the ACC, Big Ten, or SEC, putting the Huskies at a disadvantage. They also hadn’t beat any top schools (Stanford fell apart after their game) and mostly beat up on the bottom of the conference.

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Washington barely skated by Utah, who gave them fits throughout the game. The Utes even led 17-14 at one point, but couldn’t stretch this any further. While the close win may not do Washington a lot of favors, especially with the College Football Playoff rankings being revealed on Tuesday, staying unbeaten means they are alive for that top four spot. They cannot lose or look challenged like they did on Saturday, though. Otherwise, they may not be in a featured bowl game.

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