By Kyle Kensing, Athlon Sports: Washington’s first season with former secondary coach and defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake at the helm had its share of highs and lows. The Huskies finished the pandemic-shortened campaign with the best win percentage in the Pac-12 North, but COVID-19 protocols denied them both a rivalry matchup with Oregon and, more importantly, a shot at the conference title.
With that unfortunate turn looming over it, Washington has plenty of reason to play with a chip on its shoulder in 2021. That could be a serious problem for the rest of the Pac-12. The Huskies are loaded on defense and will continue to employ the physical brand of football that buoyed the program during Chris Petersen’s tenure. If the offense comes together, this might be the conference’s team to beat in 2021.
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