Washington Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

Right after the Cal game, Washington takes right back to the road to face Arizona State in Tempe. At this point the Huskies could be ranked up in the top three or four teams in the nation after a 6-0 start. Arizona State will likely be either 2-3 or 3-2 as they head into a bye week before playing the Huskies.

Last year, the Sun Devils gave Jake Browning nearly as much trouble as USC and Alabama managed to generate. Washington’s quarterback had plenty of time to throw for 338 yards and two scores, as Arizona State failed to pressure Browning much. The ASU secondary, though, picked off Browning twice in that November contest as they fought in vain for bowl eligibility.

The interdivisional showdown ended 44-27 in the Huskies’ favor last year. Once again Arizona State could be fighting for bowl eligibility. They could also be fighting for head coach Todd Graham’s job as he finds himself on the hot seat. The fact that this encounter comes earlier in the season does the Sun Devils few favors.

Prediction: Washington 41, Arizona State 26 (7-0, 4-0 Pac-12)

If you want to circle trap games on Washington’s schedule, this might be one. Sun Devil Stadium is not an easy place to win, by any means. Arizona State will be scrapping to restore itself to the postseason. But they don’t have the roster to run with the Huskies for a full 60 minutes. Kalen Ballage and Demario Richard will be able to get some yards against the UW defense, but drives will stall inside the red zone. ASU will kick multiple field goals en route to defeat.