ESPN.com - Instant Analysis: UW 52, Portland State 13

ESPN.com: Washington Huskies

Saturday, September 15, 2012
Instant Analysis: UW 52, Portland State 13

By Mason Kelley

SEATTLE – If there was any lingering frustration after last week’s loss at LSU, Washington let it loose on Portland State Saturday as the Huskies cruised to a 52-13 victory at CenturyLink Field.

It was over when: Portland State attempted an onside kick to open the game. The trick play failed and provided Washington with good field position. The Huskies needed just four plays to score and never looked back, tallying touchdowns on their first two drives.

Game ball goes to: There are plenty of players to pick from in this one, but quarterback Keith Price takes home the game ball this week after relieving some pressure by completing 14 of 19 passes for 181 yards and three touchdowns.

Stat of the game: Washington matched a school record by scoring 45 points in the first half -- the Huskies also scored 45 points against Oregon State in 1999. Over the first two quarters the Huskies produced four touchdowns on offense -- three passing, one rushing -- one on special teams, one on defense and tacked on a 41-yard field goal from Travis Coons right before the half.

On-field firsts: Sophomore receiver DiAndre Campbell caught his first touchdown pass, while sophomore right tackle Mike Criste and redshirt freshman left guard Dexter Charles made their first starts against Portland State. True freshman offensive lineman Shane Brostek also took the field for the first time, becoming the ninth freshman to play for Washington this season.

What it means: While it is important to keep in mind that the Huskies were playing an FCS team, the good news is Washington has some positive momentum as it heads into the bye week with games against Stanford, Oregon, USC and Arizona looming. The Huskies were able to find a much-needed rhythm on offense, establishing their ground game -- Bishop Sankey rushed for 103 yards and two touchdowns on 14 carries -- and building some confidence along an offensive line that is trying to create continuity.