No. 7 Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. entered Saturday’s game against No. 8 Oregon as the favorite to win the Heisman.
With his performance against the Ducks, he might have just put one hand on the trophy.
The teams had traded blows for the better part of four quarters when the Huskies defense made a stop on fourth down with just two minutes left to get the ball back to their offense trailing 33–29.
With the game on the line, Penix was brilliant, needing just two plays to put Washington back on top.
First, Penix connected with receiver Ja'Lynn Polk for a 35-yard gain, putting the Huskies in the red zone.
A HUGE GAIN
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 14, 2023
Here comes @UW_Football 🔥 pic.twitter.com/CP5wM9zVth
On the very next snap, Penix found Rome Odunze in the end zone to take a 36–33 lead. It was Odunze’s second touchdown of the day.
TOUCHDOWN HUSKIES@UW_Football takes the lead with less than 2 minutes left to play! pic.twitter.com/cDVdENKL7E
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 14, 2023
When Oregon got the ball back, the Washington defense was able to bend but not break. The Ducks set up for a potential game-tying field goal from 43 yards out on the final play of the game.
NO GOOD
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 14, 2023
NO GOOD
NO GOOD
Oregon misses the field goal and @UW_Football wins it! pic.twitter.com/hHEhCIWZnC
As fans stormed the field, Penix shared a hug 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
Penix completed 22-of-37 passes on the night, throwing for 302 yards and four touchdowns against just one interception. Most importantly, when the lights were brightest, he shined for the Huskies.
If Penix goes on to win the Heisman this year, we might look back on this game as the moment he won it.
