Through the Huskies’ Eyes: A Look at the 2024 CFP National Championship Game
As the Washington Huskies prepare to take the field at NRG Stadium in Houston for the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship, they carry with them the hopes of a perfect season and the weight of history. The Huskies’ unbeaten run leading up to their clash with the equally undefeated Michigan Wolverines has been nothing short of impressive, with a 37-31 victory over No. 3 Texas in the Sugar Bowl setting the stage for this monumental showdown.
Monday’s game, set to air at 6:30 p.m. CT/4:30 p.m. PT on ESPN, will mark the 14th time Washington has faced a No. 1-ranked AP team. The Huskies’ record in these matchups is a testament to their ability to rise to the occasion, having been ranked in only four of those games and still managing to leave their mark.
The storied history between UW and Michigan adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming championship. With 13 previous encounters, including four Rose Bowl matchups and a series split, the rivalry is rich with memorable moments. From Warren Moon’s MVP performance in the 1978 Rose Bowl to Steve Pelluer‘s heroics in 1983, each game has contributed to the legacy of both programs.
Washington’s track record against Big Ten teams stands strong, with a 50-47-2 all-time record. Despite the mixed results in recent bowl games against Big Ten opposition, the Huskies’ current form suggests they are more than ready to take on the challenge posed by Michigan.
Key to Washington’s success has been the dynamic offense led by head coach Kalen DeBoer, who boasts an impressive 104-11 career record and has yet to lose against ranked teams while at UW. The Huskies’ passing attack, ranked No. 1 in the nation, has significantly maintained the country’s longest active FBS winning streak at 21 games.
Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has been a revelation, climbing to third in UW’s all-time career TD passes and showcasing his talent with multiple TD passes in 21 of his 27 games. His formidable partnership with receiver Rome Odunze, now holding the school record for receiving yards in a season, has been a highlight reel.
The nation watches with bated breath as the Huskies gear up for their biggest game of the season. Can Washington continue winning and securing the national championship, or will Michigan halt its streak? One thing is certain – the Huskies are ready to leave everything on the field through their eyes, with the hopes of a Husky Nation behind them.
Monday night will either solidify the Huskies’ place in college football lore or serve as a heart-stopping chapter in their history. As the team looks to extend its winning streak and claim the ultimate prize, the 2024 CFP National Championship offers a chance to achieve immortality in the annals of Washington football.
