Washington Huskies: John Timu
Most important player: Washington Huskies
May, 16, 2013
May 16
5:30
PM PT
By
Kevin Gemmell | ESPN.com
All players are equal, but some players are more equal than others. That's the basis of our Most Important Player series.
First off, quarterbacks are excluded to make things more interesting. It goes without saying, for example, that Oregon's Marcus Mariota is the Ducks' most important player.
And most important doesn't necessarily have to be "best." An All-American's backup can be pretty darn good, too.
Our most important guys are players who could swing a win total one way or the other, based on their living up to expectations. Or their absence.
Washington: S Sean Parker
2012 production: Tallied 77 tackles, 3.5 tackles for a loss and two interceptions with six passes defended. He also forced three fumbles.
Why Parker is so important: As stated above, quarterbacks are excluded from this series. But we never said anything about excluding the quarterback of the defense. And that's exactly what Sean Parker is for the Huskies -- a quarterback at safety who headlines a surging secondary.
There are a lot of different directions to go with the Huskies. Running back Bishop Sankey is an obvious choice. He's a 1,400-yard rusher who has quickly climbed from by-committee option to A-list playmaker. Kasen Williams and Austin Seferian-Jenkins are strong options as well.
Defensively, there are some good linebacker options in Shaq Thompson, John Timu or Travis Feeney. All could fill this space.
But Parker, who was selected by his teammates as a captain last year, is the guy who makes everything click.
"Tremendous player. Great leader. Really exemplifies what we want back there," said head coach Steve Sarkisian.
As documented, the Huskies' defense made huge strides in 2012 -- particularly in the secondary -- in their first year under defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox. And if they hope to be a Top-25 team -- as many have them slated -- that defense will have to keep improving. Parker will have to keep improving.
He stepped up in some of Washington's biggest games last year. He forced a fumble, had five tackles and a tackle for a loss in the win over Stanford. Against Oregon State he broke up three passes and had an interception that stopped an early drive deep in Washington territory.
This year's schedule isn't quite as daunting. But they still play in the Pac-12 North and they have to travel to Arizona State and UCLA -- not to mention the home opener against Boise State in a rematch of last year's bowl game. But there is plenty of leadership on the Huskies this year and Parker, an all-league honorable mention pick last season, is considered the leader of the leaders.
He's started in all 13 games each of the last two seasons and has been through the peaks and valleys of the program. The Huskies have a chance to ascend to peaks they haven't reached in a decade. If they do, chances are Parker plays a huge role in getting them there.
First off, quarterbacks are excluded to make things more interesting. It goes without saying, for example, that Oregon's Marcus Mariota is the Ducks' most important player.
And most important doesn't necessarily have to be "best." An All-American's backup can be pretty darn good, too.
Our most important guys are players who could swing a win total one way or the other, based on their living up to expectations. Or their absence.
Washington: S Sean Parker
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Why Parker is so important: As stated above, quarterbacks are excluded from this series. But we never said anything about excluding the quarterback of the defense. And that's exactly what Sean Parker is for the Huskies -- a quarterback at safety who headlines a surging secondary.
There are a lot of different directions to go with the Huskies. Running back Bishop Sankey is an obvious choice. He's a 1,400-yard rusher who has quickly climbed from by-committee option to A-list playmaker. Kasen Williams and Austin Seferian-Jenkins are strong options as well.
Defensively, there are some good linebacker options in Shaq Thompson, John Timu or Travis Feeney. All could fill this space.
But Parker, who was selected by his teammates as a captain last year, is the guy who makes everything click.
"Tremendous player. Great leader. Really exemplifies what we want back there," said head coach Steve Sarkisian.
As documented, the Huskies' defense made huge strides in 2012 -- particularly in the secondary -- in their first year under defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox. And if they hope to be a Top-25 team -- as many have them slated -- that defense will have to keep improving. Parker will have to keep improving.
He stepped up in some of Washington's biggest games last year. He forced a fumble, had five tackles and a tackle for a loss in the win over Stanford. Against Oregon State he broke up three passes and had an interception that stopped an early drive deep in Washington territory.
This year's schedule isn't quite as daunting. But they still play in the Pac-12 North and they have to travel to Arizona State and UCLA -- not to mention the home opener against Boise State in a rematch of last year's bowl game. But there is plenty of leadership on the Huskies this year and Parker, an all-league honorable mention pick last season, is considered the leader of the leaders.
He's started in all 13 games each of the last two seasons and has been through the peaks and valleys of the program. The Huskies have a chance to ascend to peaks they haven't reached in a decade. If they do, chances are Parker plays a huge role in getting them there.
WASHINGTON HUSKIES
2012 record: 7-6
2012 conference record: 5-4 (Fourth in North Division)
Returning starters: Offense 10; Defense 8; Kicker/punter: 2
Top returners: QB Keith Price, RB Bishop Sankey, WR Kasen Williams, TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins, DB Sean Parker, LB John Timu, DE Josh Shirley, LB Shaq Thompson.
Key losses: CB Desmond Trufant, DB Justin Glenn, C Drew Schaefer, FB Jonathan Amosa.
2012 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Bishop Sankey* (1,439)
Passing: Keith Price* (2,726)
Receiving: Kasen Williams* (878)
Tackles: John Timu* (91)
Sacks: Josh Shirley*; Andrew Hudson* (6.5)
Interceptions: Justin Glenn, Shaq Thompson*, Marcus Peters* (3)
Spring answers
2012 record: 7-6
2012 conference record: 5-4 (Fourth in North Division)
Returning starters: Offense 10; Defense 8; Kicker/punter: 2
Top returners: QB Keith Price, RB Bishop Sankey, WR Kasen Williams, TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins, DB Sean Parker, LB John Timu, DE Josh Shirley, LB Shaq Thompson.
Key losses: CB Desmond Trufant, DB Justin Glenn, C Drew Schaefer, FB Jonathan Amosa.
2012 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Bishop Sankey* (1,439)
Passing: Keith Price* (2,726)
Receiving: Kasen Williams* (878)
Tackles: John Timu* (91)
Sacks: Josh Shirley*; Andrew Hudson* (6.5)
Interceptions: Justin Glenn, Shaq Thompson*, Marcus Peters* (3)
Spring answers
- Picking up the pace: We know the Huskies spent the spring installing a new up-tempo offense. How much of it was installed and how comfortable the players are running it remains to be seen. But Steve Sarkisian has made a point that his team needs to 1) do a better job keeping up with the up-tempo offenses in the league and 2) do a better job keeping teams on their heels. This philosophical switch seems to address both since the defense has been practicing against an up-tempo offense.
- Starting five: Many believe this is the best team Sarkisian has had since coming to Washington. And part of that might be that he finally has a healthy offensive line with quality depth behind the starters. The group of Micah Hatchie (LT), Dexter Charles (LG), Mike Criste (C), James Atoe (RG) and Ben Riva (RT) worked as the first-team starting five all spring. And former starters Erik Kohler and Colin Tanigawa, along with experienced backup Shane Brostek, give the Huskies quantity and quality up front.
- Progress of Price: The breakout player of 2011 and embattled starter of 2012, Keith Price, quickly shook off whispers of a quarterback competition with a strong spring that left Sarkisian feeling good about his third-year starter. He distanced himself from would-be challengers and, if he can return to that 2011 form, could have Washington in the top 25.
- After Price: It looks like Cyler Miles has established himself as No. 2 in the quarterback hierarchy, but the battle to be Price's understudy will continue into the fall with Derrick Brown and Jeff Lindquist still in the mix. The Huskies were one of only four teams in the conference last year to have the same quarterback start every game. So Price has proven his durability. But having a clear pecking order behind the starter can be equally important.
- Replacing Trufant: No easy task to replace Desmond Trufant, a staple in the Washington defensive backfield who at one point started 45 straight games. Marcus Peters is all but locked in on one side, leaving Greg Ducre and Travell Dixon battling it out on the other side. Tre Watson will also be in the mix.
- ASJ MIA: How long will Austin Seferian-Jenkins, the Pac-12's top tight end, be out? Will he miss any games? He's been suspended indefinitely stemming from his DUI arrest and many are wondering if he'll miss at least the season opener against Boise State. Sarkisian pointed to the silver lining of the situation -- noting that his absence has allowed others at the position to get extensive work this spring. He also said Seferian-Jenkins is taking all of the proper steps to rejoin the team. There is little doubt he'll be the most dominant tight end in the league in 2013, and probably the country. The timetable for his return will be of great interest in the coming months.
SEATTLE -- This is the year. Washington coach Steve Sarkisian is preparing for his fifth season with the Huskies and, after three straight bowl appearances, 2013 seems to be the season where the program is expected to take the next step.
After signing four straight top 25 recruiting classes, Washington is now expected to put a top 25 team on the field.
After signing four straight top 25 recruiting classes, Washington is now expected to put a top 25 team on the field.
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SEATTLE -- When Steve Sarkisian met with the media Monday, Washington’s coach talked about a team that is “poised for a great run” in 2013.
That journey begins Tuesday when the Huskies take the field for their first spring practice.
“We’re champing at the bit to get on the field and get going,” Sarkisian said.
Sarkisian believes the pieces are in place for the program to compete for a Pac-12 title. To do that, Washington needs to find success and build confidence this spring.
Here are five storylines to follow as the Huskies set out to reach the lofty expectations that have been set in front of the program:
1: Can Keith Price regain the form he showed as a sophomore?
Heading into the spring, Price is Washington’s quarterback. Sarkisian made that clear when asked about the senior quarterback.
However, Sarkisian also made it clear that the Huskies’ passing attack needs to take a step forward, and Price needs to regain the confidence he had as a sophomore.
“The goal is to get Keith Price back to playing the way he was two years ago,” Sarkisian said.
With the way Price, and the team, struggled at times last season, both the quarterback and coaching staff tried to manufacture the energy Price produced so naturally as a sophomore.
It didn’t work.
“It’s developed through confidence, through belief to where it exudes out of him and it’s not trying to be created superficially,” Sarkisian said.
Through Price’s offseason training, Sarkisian believes the quarterback will regain his swagger in time for theseason. But the other quarterbacks in the program -- Cyler Miles, Jeff Lindquist, Troy Williams and Derrick Brown -- will get their opportunities.
“We’re not going to be stubborn enough to think, if another guy is playing better that guy won’t get that opportunity to beat him out,” Sarkisian said. “[Price] understands the focus of this spring and what he needs to do for himself so that he can perform to the highest level of his capabilities.”
That journey begins Tuesday when the Huskies take the field for their first spring practice.
“We’re champing at the bit to get on the field and get going,” Sarkisian said.
Sarkisian believes the pieces are in place for the program to compete for a Pac-12 title. To do that, Washington needs to find success and build confidence this spring.
Here are five storylines to follow as the Huskies set out to reach the lofty expectations that have been set in front of the program:
[+] Enlarge
Steven Bisig/US PresswireThe Huskies are looking forward to seeing Keith Price regain his sophomore-year form in 2013.
Steven Bisig/US PresswireThe Huskies are looking forward to seeing Keith Price regain his sophomore-year form in 2013.Heading into the spring, Price is Washington’s quarterback. Sarkisian made that clear when asked about the senior quarterback.
However, Sarkisian also made it clear that the Huskies’ passing attack needs to take a step forward, and Price needs to regain the confidence he had as a sophomore.
“The goal is to get Keith Price back to playing the way he was two years ago,” Sarkisian said.
With the way Price, and the team, struggled at times last season, both the quarterback and coaching staff tried to manufacture the energy Price produced so naturally as a sophomore.
It didn’t work.
“It’s developed through confidence, through belief to where it exudes out of him and it’s not trying to be created superficially,” Sarkisian said.
Through Price’s offseason training, Sarkisian believes the quarterback will regain his swagger in time for theseason. But the other quarterbacks in the program -- Cyler Miles, Jeff Lindquist, Troy Williams and Derrick Brown -- will get their opportunities.
“We’re not going to be stubborn enough to think, if another guy is playing better that guy won’t get that opportunity to beat him out,” Sarkisian said. “[Price] understands the focus of this spring and what he needs to do for himself so that he can perform to the highest level of his capabilities.”
Top five sleepers
RB Bishop Sankey
Class: 2011
If there were any doubts about Sankey’s ability, he quieted his critics during his sophomore season. Pressed into a starting role because of injuries, Sankey flourished, rushing for 1,439 yards and 16 touchdowns.
RB Bishop Sankey
Class: 2011
If there were any doubts about Sankey’s ability, he quieted his critics during his sophomore season. Pressed into a starting role because of injuries, Sankey flourished, rushing for 1,439 yards and 16 touchdowns.
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Whenever a team squanders an 18-point lead in the fourth quarter before going on to lose in overtime, the defeat hurts. When that loss comes against the program’s cross-state rival, the sting lingers.
After falling to Washington State, 31-28, in the Apple Cup, Washington is left with questions it thought it had answered. The Huskies' four-game winning streak was snapped and they fell out of the top 25, putting more importance on ending the season with a bowl win.
As the Huskies continue to digest what happened against the Cougars, here is a look at who played well in Saturday’s loss in Pullman, Wash.
After falling to Washington State, 31-28, in the Apple Cup, Washington is left with questions it thought it had answered. The Huskies' four-game winning streak was snapped and they fell out of the top 25, putting more importance on ending the season with a bowl win.
As the Huskies continue to digest what happened against the Cougars, here is a look at who played well in Saturday’s loss in Pullman, Wash.
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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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3 Up, 3 Down: Washington 34, Utah 15 
November, 11, 2012
11/11/12
9:40
AM PT
By
Mason Kelley | ESPN.com
SEATTLE -- A look at positives and negatives from Washington’s 34-15 win over Utah at CenturyLink Field.
THREE UP
1. Keith Price: Washington coach Steve Sarkisian called the quarterback’s performance “by far and away Keith’s biggest game of the year.” The junior completed 24 of 33 passes for 277 yards and two touchdowns. He also had a 4-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter. But, while the numbers were great, Price didn’t turn the ball over, solving one of his biggest problems so far this season.
THREE UP
1. Keith Price: Washington coach Steve Sarkisian called the quarterback’s performance “by far and away Keith’s biggest game of the year.” The junior completed 24 of 33 passes for 277 yards and two touchdowns. He also had a 4-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter. But, while the numbers were great, Price didn’t turn the ball over, solving one of his biggest problems so far this season.
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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.
SEATTLE -- All of a sudden, Washington’s three-game losing streak is disappearing into the distance.
The Huskies have won back-to-back games for the second time in 2012. With a 21-13 win at Cal, the program picked up its first road victory of the season with three winnable games remaining on the schedule.
It wasn’t pretty, but Washington survived four turnovers by capitalizing on several Cal miscues. The Huskies needed big games from sophomore standouts in order to return from Northern California one win away from becoming bowl eligible.
The Huskies have won back-to-back games for the second time in 2012. With a 21-13 win at Cal, the program picked up its first road victory of the season with three winnable games remaining on the schedule.
It wasn’t pretty, but Washington survived four turnovers by capitalizing on several Cal miscues. The Huskies needed big games from sophomore standouts in order to return from Northern California one win away from becoming bowl eligible.
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SEATTLE -- Washington had its toughness tested Saturday against Oregon State. The Huskies had their resiliency questioned.
They answered the challenges.
The program put together a 20-17 victory over the Beavers. The Huskies knocked off a top 10 opponent for the second time this season. They put their season back on track.
They answered the challenges.
The program put together a 20-17 victory over the Beavers. The Huskies knocked off a top 10 opponent for the second time this season. They put their season back on track.
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3 Up, 3 Down: UW 20, Oregon State 17
October, 28, 2012
10/28/12
10:55
AM PT
By
Mason Kelley | ESPN.com
SEATTLE -- A look at positives and negatives from Washington’s 20-17 win over No. 7 Oregon State at CenturyLink Field.
THREE UP
1. Bishop Sankey: Washington coach Steve Sarkisian said his program needed to “instill our will” early in the game. To do that, the Huskies got the ball to Sankey early and often. The sophomore finished with 92 yards and two touchdowns on 25 carries.
THREE UP
1. Bishop Sankey: Washington coach Steve Sarkisian said his program needed to “instill our will” early in the game. To do that, the Huskies got the ball to Sankey early and often. The sophomore finished with 92 yards and two touchdowns on 25 carries.
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SEATTLE -- With Washington picking up its first win over a top 10 team since 2009 in knocking off Stanford, 17-13, there are plenty of positives to point out.
In fact, so many players performed well, it was tough to sort out this week’s Washington top 10.
The Huskies, ranked No. 23 this week, will need a similar effort if they want to take down No. 2 Oregon in Eugene. The Cardinal came into Seattle holding a four-game win streak over Washington. Well, the Ducks have beaten the Huskies eight times in row.
In fact, so many players performed well, it was tough to sort out this week’s Washington top 10.
The Huskies, ranked No. 23 this week, will need a similar effort if they want to take down No. 2 Oregon in Eugene. The Cardinal came into Seattle holding a four-game win streak over Washington. Well, the Ducks have beaten the Huskies eight times in row.
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Power rankings: Top 10 Week 1 Huskies
September, 3, 2012
9/03/12
1:25
PM PT
By
Mason Kelley | ESPN.com
SEATTLE -- One week into the 2012 season, Washington has some baseline answers to a few key questions it carried into the season opener against San Diego State.
The Huskies' new-look defense under coordinator Justin Wilcox flashed potential. And the offense showed signs with tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins, receiver Kasen Williams and running back Bishop Sankey all taking the next step as sophomores.
But Washington returned to practice Monday looking for consistency.
The Huskies' new-look defense under coordinator Justin Wilcox flashed potential. And the offense showed signs with tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins, receiver Kasen Williams and running back Bishop Sankey all taking the next step as sophomores.
But Washington returned to practice Monday looking for consistency.
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SEATTLE -- After an eventful three weeks of fall camp, Washington coach Steve Sarkisian said the “volume gets turned up” this week as the Huskies prepare for the season opener against San Diego State.
“I thought the guys brought a real sense of energy and enthusiasm, a little bit of an edge to practice today,” Sarkisian said Monday during his weekly news conference.
Whether it was injuries or position changes, Sarkisian said the adversity has shaped the team that will take the field at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at CenturyLink Field.
“We got dealt our fair share of things early on, obviously, from some injuries to guys moving around to some different positions, but the end result, I believe we’re better for it and excited to go play,” Sarkisian said.
Callier, Sankey to split reps: Jesse Callier said his father always told him it’s best to “come from the bottom.”
With Chris Polk in the NFL, Callier gets his chance to force his way into the spotlight as a junior.
“Come from the bottom and no one is expecting you and, next thing you know, you’re on them,” Callier said.
Callier is listed at the top of the depth chart with sophomore Bishop Sankey. Both backs will get carries. Both backs will get a chance to prove they can play.
“I think we’ve got a good plan in place for both those kids to, hopefully, put them in position to do what they do to be successful,” Sarkisian said. “We’ll get a better feel for them as the game goes on.”
Sophomore captain John Timu: Only a sophomore, linebacker John Timu was named one of the Huskies' three defensive captains over the weekend.
When asked about the decision, Sarkisian praised Timu’s maturity.
“He’s a really mature guy,” Sarkisian said. “Sometimes he doesn’t show as much emotion as maybe we would all like, but that calming effect that he has, I think, is why he has been able to persevere so much in his own personal life with some of the injuries and things.
“There’s some natural leadership that comes out of him that guys really recognize. I think it speaks volumes to the maturity that he possesses.”
Injury report: No new injuries were reported Monday.
Steve Sarkisian listed Hau’oli Jamora, Deontae Cooper, Nate Fellner, James Johnson, Jamaal Kearse and Cooper Pelluer as the six players out for Saturday’s season opener.
Pelluer and Cooper are already dealing with season-ending injuries. Cooper (knee) and Jamora (knee) will have surgery on their respective injuries Thursday.
Quotable: When asked about his goals for the Huskies in 2012, quarterback Keith Price said, “We’re trying to win the Pac-12; that’s our goal. Obviously we’ve got to earn respect and we have to win games.”
Other notes
“I thought the guys brought a real sense of energy and enthusiasm, a little bit of an edge to practice today,” Sarkisian said Monday during his weekly news conference.
Whether it was injuries or position changes, Sarkisian said the adversity has shaped the team that will take the field at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at CenturyLink Field.
“We got dealt our fair share of things early on, obviously, from some injuries to guys moving around to some different positions, but the end result, I believe we’re better for it and excited to go play,” Sarkisian said.
[+] Enlarge
Steven Bisig/US PresswireHuskies junior Jesse Callier will be the starter at running back.
Steven Bisig/US PresswireHuskies junior Jesse Callier will be the starter at running back.With Chris Polk in the NFL, Callier gets his chance to force his way into the spotlight as a junior.
“Come from the bottom and no one is expecting you and, next thing you know, you’re on them,” Callier said.
Callier is listed at the top of the depth chart with sophomore Bishop Sankey. Both backs will get carries. Both backs will get a chance to prove they can play.
“I think we’ve got a good plan in place for both those kids to, hopefully, put them in position to do what they do to be successful,” Sarkisian said. “We’ll get a better feel for them as the game goes on.”
Sophomore captain John Timu: Only a sophomore, linebacker John Timu was named one of the Huskies' three defensive captains over the weekend.
When asked about the decision, Sarkisian praised Timu’s maturity.
“He’s a really mature guy,” Sarkisian said. “Sometimes he doesn’t show as much emotion as maybe we would all like, but that calming effect that he has, I think, is why he has been able to persevere so much in his own personal life with some of the injuries and things.
“There’s some natural leadership that comes out of him that guys really recognize. I think it speaks volumes to the maturity that he possesses.”
Injury report: No new injuries were reported Monday.
Steve Sarkisian listed Hau’oli Jamora, Deontae Cooper, Nate Fellner, James Johnson, Jamaal Kearse and Cooper Pelluer as the six players out for Saturday’s season opener.
Pelluer and Cooper are already dealing with season-ending injuries. Cooper (knee) and Jamora (knee) will have surgery on their respective injuries Thursday.
Quotable: When asked about his goals for the Huskies in 2012, quarterback Keith Price said, “We’re trying to win the Pac-12; that’s our goal. Obviously we’ve got to earn respect and we have to win games.”
Other notes
- Washington released its depth chart Monday and Derrick Brown and Cyler Miles were both listed as backup quarterbacks. “I wanted them to keep battling, keep competing,” Sarkisian said.
- Walk-on Tre Watson won the starting cornerback spot opposite Desmond Trufant. “It’s hard to deny a guy who keeps making plays,” Sarkisian said.
- Erik Kohler is listed as the starting right guard. After suffering a knee injury on the first day of camp, Kohler has now worked his way back to a point where he can rejoin the first unit.
- Sarkisian said at least five freshmen will play this season -- punter Korey Durkee, safety Shaq Thompson, receiver Jaydon Mickens, receiver Kendyl Taylor and defensive end Pio Vatuvei. As far as the rest of the class, “time will tell,” Sarkisian said.
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.