Washington Football: 3 takeaways from blowout win over California
By Zach Bigalke
1. Hunter Bryant emerges as new go-to weapon for Washington
With John Ross in the NFL, much of the talk around Washington’s receiving corps has centered on speedy multi-purpose threat Dante Pettis. While he failed to break his tie atop the all-time FBS punt return touchdown charts against Cal, Pettis finished the night with 10 catches for 48 yards but was held off the scoresheet.
Instead, it was tight end Hunter Bryant who earned top honors among receivers for the Huskies on Saturday night. The true freshman stepped up with nine receptions for 121 yards and a touchdown, showing off his dynamic skill set as he fended off Cal defenders throughout the night at home.
It was the biggest night yet for Washington’s burgeoning star at the tight end position. Entering the season, it was one of the positions of concern after the Huskies lost graduated senior Darrell Daniels. Bryant has been brilliant so far after the transition, posting the first 100-yard performance of his young college career.
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At 6-foot-2 and 239 pounds, Bryant presents a mismatch against most Pac-12 defenses. As the Huskies enter the back half of their regular-season schedule, Bryant will continue to play an integral role in their run for another Pac-12 title.