Washington quarterback Williams struggled under pressure during a 25-21 loss to USC at the LA Memorial Coliseum, completing 15 of 26 passes for 198 yards and a touchdown in front of an announced crowd of 59,136. The junior signal-caller was held below 200 yards passing for the first time this season, recording a 57.7% completion percentage that marked a season low and the second-lowest mark of his career as a starter, seattletimes.com reported.
Washington offense overcomes slow start
The Washington offense endured a dismal start, going three-and-out on four of their first five drives. Williams managed just 2-for-8 passing for 8 yards through the initial 20 minutes of the contest. The Huskies’ opening score came via a trick play when wide receiver Dezmen Roebuck took a pitch from Williams and threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to tight end Baron Naone.
Despite the offensive stagnant stretch, USC miscues handed Washington an improbable 14-10 lead by halftime. An illegal formation penalty erased a 37-yard touchdown catch by Trojans wide receiver Kayden Dixon-Wyatt. USC defensive end Luke Wafle drew a face mask penalty while sacking Williams for a 12-yard loss, setting up a 1-yard touchdown plunge by Washington tight end Kade Eldridge.
Lineup Changes Spark Brief Momentum
Washington coach Jedd Fisch altered his offensive line arrangement with 5:15 remaining in the first half, shifting sophomore John Mills from left guard to left tackle to replace freshman Kodi Greene. Seventh-year lineman Geirean Hatchett moved to left guard, and sophomore Champ Taulealea stepped in at right guard.
The adjustments unlocked a brief offensive rhythm. Eldridge scored his short rushing touchdown just before the break, and tight end Decker DeGraaf hauled in a 42-yard touchdown catch on Washington’s first possession of the third quarter. The strike marked the first time the Huskies scored on an opening second-half drive this season, extending their advantage to 21-10.
Turnovers and Defensive Pressure Seal the Defeat
USC answered with a 13-play, seven-minute touchdown drive capped by quarterback Jayden Maiava hitting wide receiver Tanook Hines for a 10-yard score. The turning point arrived on Washington’s ensuing possession when Williams fumbled on third-and-8 from his own 49-yard line. Flushed to his left, Williams double-clutched while attempting a checkdown to Eldridge and was hit in the throwing arm by linebacker Elijah Newby. Defensive lineman Jahkeem Stewart scooped up the loose ball and returned it 48 yards for a touchdown.
“When I pulled it back to throw again, I got hit in my arm,” Williams said. “I just can’t do that.”
Washington manufactured a late scoring chance after getting the ball back trailing by four points with five minutes remaining. Williams converted a fourth-and-2 with a 43-yard deep pass to Chris Lawson and reached the red zone before taking a 6-yard sack on third-and-4 from the USC 12-yard line with 50 seconds left. A desperation throw into double coverage to Roebuck on the next play ended the threat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Williams’ final passing statistics against USC?
Williams finished the game 15-for-26 passing for 198 yards, one touchdown, and a season-low 57.7% completion percentage.
How did USC reclaim the lead in the second half?
Trailing 21-10, USC capitalized on a defensive play when linebacker Elijah Newby hit Williams’ arm during a scramble, forcing a fumble that defensive lineman Jahkeem Stewart returned 48 yards for a touchdown.
Who are Washington’s upcoming opponents following the loss?
The Huskies dropped to 3-2 overall and 0-2 in Big Ten play, facing a short week before playing No. 14 Iowa on Friday.