Washington escaped a major upset against rival Washington State on Saturday with a walk-off field goal, but quarterback Michael Penix Jr. couldn’t bear to watch it.
Penix had to look away during the game-winning attempt, which helped the Huskies stay perfect on the season ahead of their Pac-12 Championship rematch with Oregon next Friday.
The quarterback’s undefeated season remained intact, and Penix was visibly, understandably emotional after the game ended.
This had to have been a roller coaster for the ages for Penix and Washington right after being ranked in the top four by the College Football Playoff committee for the first time this season.
Michael Penix Jr. had to look away as Washington went for the game-winning field goal to beat Washington State.
🎥 @CFBONFOXpic.twitter.com/RK5ZayDi6L
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) November 26, 2023
Michael Penix Jr. after the game pic.twitter.com/vBjDQMYKRX
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 26, 2023
Penix will be able to help cement his team’s national title chances next weekend against Oregon, where the Ducks are huge favorites to win.
We’ll see if next week’s game features more last-second dramatics, or if Penix can breathe easy and watch the final seconds of a comfortable win.