Washington Huskies: DiAndre Campbell
SEATTLE -- With two games left, Washington has a chance to finish the year more or less where the Huskies expected heading into fall camp.
Sure, the program could have played better on the road at Arizona. And the USC game was there for the taking. But, the Huskies have won three in a row. They are bowl eligible for the third year in a row. They have a chance to be 8-4 heading into a bowl game if they win at Colorado and Washington State the next two weeks.
Quarterback Keith Price is playing his best football of the season, Bishop Sankey has cracked the 1,000-yard mark and Austin Seferian-Jenkins continues to play at a level that should eventually have him playing on Sundays.
Sure, the program could have played better on the road at Arizona. And the USC game was there for the taking. But, the Huskies have won three in a row. They are bowl eligible for the third year in a row. They have a chance to be 8-4 heading into a bowl game if they win at Colorado and Washington State the next two weeks.
Quarterback Keith Price is playing his best football of the season, Bishop Sankey has cracked the 1,000-yard mark and Austin Seferian-Jenkins continues to play at a level that should eventually have him playing on Sundays.
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Instant Analysis: Washington 34, Utah 15
November, 10, 2012
11/10/12
11:20
PM PT
By
Mason Kelley | ESPN.com
SEATTLE -- Washington quarterback Keith Price put together one of his best performances of the season, helping the Huskies’ offense get untracked Saturday during a 34-15 victory over Utah at CenturyLink Field.
It was over when: Utah tried to convert a fourth-and-1 from its 43 on the Utes’ first drive of the third quarter. Danny Shelton and John Timu stuffed running back John White. The Huskies quickly scored on a 9-yard touchdown pass from Price to DiAndre Campbell to take a 21-8 lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
Game ball goes to: Price. There has been talk all year about the quarterback’s struggles in his junior season, but he put all of that behind him this week, completing 24 of 33 passes for 277 yards and two touchdowns. He didn’t turn the ball over and scored a rushing touchdown from 4 yards out in the second quarter.
Stat of the game: If there is one number that has followed Washington all season it has been the Huskies’ inability to score more than 21 points against an FBS opponent. The program peaked above that plateau for the first time this season, as the Huskies’ found their footing on offense.
What this means for Washington: The Huskies improved to 5-1 at CenturyLink Field -- their temporary home -- and won their sixth game of the season to become bowl eligible for the third year in a row. Washington has won its last three games and has winnable games at Colorado and at Washington State remaining on its schedule.
What this means for Utah: Heading into Saturday’s matchup, the Utes were 11-0 when White gained at least 100 yards. That streak ended against Washington, with White finishing with 142 yards and two touchdowns in the loss. Utah now needs to win its last two games against Arizona and Colorado to become bowl eligible.
Two-way player: In addition to his duties as Washington’s sophomore tight end, Austin Seferian-Jenkins spent some time lined up at defensive end due to injuries along Washington’s defensive front. The double duty didn’t slow down Seferian-Jenkins on offense. He caught seven passes for 99 yards.
No returns for Dunn: After Reggie Dunn returned three kickoffs for touchdowns in two games, the Huskies avoided kicking the ball to the senior, who didn’t get an opportunity for another big return.
It was over when: Utah tried to convert a fourth-and-1 from its 43 on the Utes’ first drive of the third quarter. Danny Shelton and John Timu stuffed running back John White. The Huskies quickly scored on a 9-yard touchdown pass from Price to DiAndre Campbell to take a 21-8 lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
Game ball goes to: Price. There has been talk all year about the quarterback’s struggles in his junior season, but he put all of that behind him this week, completing 24 of 33 passes for 277 yards and two touchdowns. He didn’t turn the ball over and scored a rushing touchdown from 4 yards out in the second quarter.
Stat of the game: If there is one number that has followed Washington all season it has been the Huskies’ inability to score more than 21 points against an FBS opponent. The program peaked above that plateau for the first time this season, as the Huskies’ found their footing on offense.
What this means for Washington: The Huskies improved to 5-1 at CenturyLink Field -- their temporary home -- and won their sixth game of the season to become bowl eligible for the third year in a row. Washington has won its last three games and has winnable games at Colorado and at Washington State remaining on its schedule.
What this means for Utah: Heading into Saturday’s matchup, the Utes were 11-0 when White gained at least 100 yards. That streak ended against Washington, with White finishing with 142 yards and two touchdowns in the loss. Utah now needs to win its last two games against Arizona and Colorado to become bowl eligible.
Two-way player: In addition to his duties as Washington’s sophomore tight end, Austin Seferian-Jenkins spent some time lined up at defensive end due to injuries along Washington’s defensive front. The double duty didn’t slow down Seferian-Jenkins on offense. He caught seven passes for 99 yards.
No returns for Dunn: After Reggie Dunn returned three kickoffs for touchdowns in two games, the Huskies avoided kicking the ball to the senior, who didn’t get an opportunity for another big return.
Instant Analysis: UW 52, Portland State 13
September, 15, 2012
9/15/12
5:04
PM PT
By
Mason Kelley | ESPN.com
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.
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.
Halftime Analysis: UW 45, Portland State 0
September, 15, 2012
9/15/12
3:17
PM PT
By
Mason Kelley | ESPN.com
SEATTLE -- After last week’s blowout in the Bayou at the hands of LSU, Washington returned home with plenty to prove. The Huskies made a statement early, scoring on their first two drives and taking a 45-0 lead into the half against Portland State Saturday at CenturyLink Field.
Stat of the half: After being held out of the end zone on offense for seven consecutive quarters, the Huskies found the end zone four times on offense, once on special teams and once on defense in the first half. They tied the school record for points in a half, matching the 45 they posted against Oregon State in 1999.
Player of the half: Quarterback Keith Price. There was a lot of talk this week about taking pressure off the junior and get him back into the rhythm he established last season. He started strong Saturday, completing 12 of 17 passes for 150 yards and three touchdowns against the Vikings.
What’s working for Washington: The offense. After stringing together a total of 183 yards and 12 first downs against LSU last week, the Huskies only needed a half to hit that mark against Portland State, totaling 261 yards and 14 first downs.
Play of the half: Freshman Shaq Thompson blocked a 33-yard field goal attempt in the second quarter. Tre Watson picked it up and returned it 79 yards for a touchdown.
Turning point: Portland State attempted an onside kick to open the game, which Washington recovered. The Huskies needed just four plays to find the end zone, with running back Bishop Sankey scoring on a 15-yard run. Washington’s second drive lasted just two plays before Price found DiAndre Campbell for a 20-yard score. It was the first touchdown reception of the sophomore’s career.
Stat of the half: After being held out of the end zone on offense for seven consecutive quarters, the Huskies found the end zone four times on offense, once on special teams and once on defense in the first half. They tied the school record for points in a half, matching the 45 they posted against Oregon State in 1999.
Player of the half: Quarterback Keith Price. There was a lot of talk this week about taking pressure off the junior and get him back into the rhythm he established last season. He started strong Saturday, completing 12 of 17 passes for 150 yards and three touchdowns against the Vikings.
What’s working for Washington: The offense. After stringing together a total of 183 yards and 12 first downs against LSU last week, the Huskies only needed a half to hit that mark against Portland State, totaling 261 yards and 14 first downs.
Play of the half: Freshman Shaq Thompson blocked a 33-yard field goal attempt in the second quarter. Tre Watson picked it up and returned it 79 yards for a touchdown.
Turning point: Portland State attempted an onside kick to open the game, which Washington recovered. The Huskies needed just four plays to find the end zone, with running back Bishop Sankey scoring on a 15-yard run. Washington’s second drive lasted just two plays before Price found DiAndre Campbell for a 20-yard score. It was the first touchdown reception of the sophomore’s career.
Tuesday practice notes: Defense ready
August, 28, 2012
8/28/12
2:48
PM PT
By
Mason Kelley | ESPN.com
SEATTLE -- While Justin Wilcox would like another month to prepare his defense before Washington takes the field for its season opener, the Huskies’ defensive coordinator doesn’t have that luxury.
After spring practice and three weeks of fall camp to install his defense, Washington is down to a final few practices before Saturday’s 7:30 p.m. PT season opener against San Diego State at CenturyLink Field.
After a little fine-tuning this week it will be time for the Huskies to “put our cards out there on the table,” as Wilcox put it.
“I think they’re excited for it," he said. "I know we are, too. We just need a couple more days of good work to make sure we can get as ready as we can possibly be.”
With a new system, injuries and players switching positions, it has taken time to develop the defense, but Washington’s players are ready to line up against some fresh faces.
“I think it’s definitely time,” Wilcox said. “They’re tired of beating up on each other. It’s time for them to go play somebody else. It’s important for us to make sure we’re getting the screws tightened this week and getting our alignments, all the things we’ve worked on all fall and now gearing toward another opponent.”
Tight end ready to make plays
Michael Hartvigson still remembers staying up late every night during his freshman season, memorizing the playbook.
The 6-foot-6, 255-pound tight end would sit down with receiver Kevin Smith, and they would quiz each other on routes and formations.
It took time, but now a redshirt sophomore, Hartvigson has settled into the system.
“Now I would say I have most of the playbook almost in the back of my head,” Hartvigson said. “From my freshman year until now, I would say I’ve definitely come a long way.”
While sophomore Austin Seferian-Jenkins receives the bulk of the headlines, Hartvigson will see plenty of playing time this season. He isn’t worried about attention or accolades. He simply wants to find ways to contribute.
“Whether it’s in the run game, in the pass game, whether it’s blocking, receiving, I’m just going to do whatever coach Sark (Steve Sarkisian) wants me to do, whatever’s best for the team,” he said.
Walk-on cornerback earns starting spot
In a perfect world, Washington’s cornerbacks would all be 6-1 -- and fast.
With that in mind, how did 5-9, 183-pound walk-on Tre Watson earn a starting job opposite senior Desmond Trufant?
“Tre makes up for it by playing a little bigger than he is, his instincts, finishing -- he never gives up on plays,” Wilcox said. “He’s earned it.”
Watson edged Greg Ducre and Marcus Peters in a three-player, fall-camp battle for the starting spot.
“All three of those guys will play,” Wilcox said. “Tre was a little more consistent throughout fall camp. The work he did in spring, we thought really started it and then he validated it this fall camp.”
Note:
• Washington receiver DiAndre Campbell was in a yellow, non-contact jersey during Tuesday’s practice.
After spring practice and three weeks of fall camp to install his defense, Washington is down to a final few practices before Saturday’s 7:30 p.m. PT season opener against San Diego State at CenturyLink Field.
After a little fine-tuning this week it will be time for the Huskies to “put our cards out there on the table,” as Wilcox put it.
“I think they’re excited for it," he said. "I know we are, too. We just need a couple more days of good work to make sure we can get as ready as we can possibly be.”
With a new system, injuries and players switching positions, it has taken time to develop the defense, but Washington’s players are ready to line up against some fresh faces.
“I think it’s definitely time,” Wilcox said. “They’re tired of beating up on each other. It’s time for them to go play somebody else. It’s important for us to make sure we’re getting the screws tightened this week and getting our alignments, all the things we’ve worked on all fall and now gearing toward another opponent.”
Tight end ready to make plays
Michael Hartvigson still remembers staying up late every night during his freshman season, memorizing the playbook.
The 6-foot-6, 255-pound tight end would sit down with receiver Kevin Smith, and they would quiz each other on routes and formations.
It took time, but now a redshirt sophomore, Hartvigson has settled into the system.
“Now I would say I have most of the playbook almost in the back of my head,” Hartvigson said. “From my freshman year until now, I would say I’ve definitely come a long way.”
While sophomore Austin Seferian-Jenkins receives the bulk of the headlines, Hartvigson will see plenty of playing time this season. He isn’t worried about attention or accolades. He simply wants to find ways to contribute.
“Whether it’s in the run game, in the pass game, whether it’s blocking, receiving, I’m just going to do whatever coach Sark (Steve Sarkisian) wants me to do, whatever’s best for the team,” he said.
Walk-on cornerback earns starting spot
In a perfect world, Washington’s cornerbacks would all be 6-1 -- and fast.
With that in mind, how did 5-9, 183-pound walk-on Tre Watson earn a starting job opposite senior Desmond Trufant?
“Tre makes up for it by playing a little bigger than he is, his instincts, finishing -- he never gives up on plays,” Wilcox said. “He’s earned it.”
Watson edged Greg Ducre and Marcus Peters in a three-player, fall-camp battle for the starting spot.
“All three of those guys will play,” Wilcox said. “Tre was a little more consistent throughout fall camp. The work he did in spring, we thought really started it and then he validated it this fall camp.”
Note:
• Washington receiver DiAndre Campbell was in a yellow, non-contact jersey during Tuesday’s practice.
ABOUT HUSKY NATION
Mason Kelley
Mason Kelley joined ESPN.com in 2012 and covers Washington recruiting. Kelley came to ESPN after spending three years as the high school sports coordinator at The Seattle Times. He has written about high school, college and professional sports since 2004, working for newspapers in Florida, California, Idaho and Washington. He currently lives in Seattle and can be reached at masonkelleyESPN@gmail.com.