Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. had a standout performance Saturday and led the No. 7 Huskies to a thrilling 36-33 home victory against No. 8 Oregon. And he was definitely the star of the game.
Trailing 33-29 with about two minutes left in the fourth quarter after Oregon turned it over on downs, Penix and the Huskies had to make some moves. And they quickly did, picking up 53 yards in 33 seconds to find the end zone for the go-ahead game-winning touchdown. Penix — who’s the Heisman Trophy favorite in Week 7 — first connected with Ja’Lynn Polk for a 35-yard gain before finding Rome Odunze for an 18-yard touchdown.
A HUGE GAIN
Here comes @UW_Football 🔥 pic.twitter.com/CP5wM9zVth
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 14, 2023
Insane.
📺: @ABCNetwork pic.twitter.com/VNrsMMLmWG
— Washington Football (@UW_Football) October 14, 2023
Washington scored awfully quickly on its final drive, but the defense was able to hold on for the victory when Oregon missed a 43-yard field goal when time expired.
As the Huskies remain undefeated and fans rushed the field at Husky Stadium, the quarterback was emotional after the win and shared a beautiful moment with his family.
Michael Penix Jr. shares an emotional hug with his family after the win ❤️@UW_Football pic.twitter.com/lfw8koTL70
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 14, 2023
With tears in his eyes…After all Michael Penix Jr has been through…what a moment for him. @UW_Football @ESPNCFB pic.twitter.com/wumwQFNOIw
— Holly Rowe (@sportsiren) October 15, 2023
What a special moment.
Penix went 22-for-37 for 302 yards, four touchdowns and an interception, and he’ll probably still be the Heisman favorite next week.