Washington football: 3 thoughts from Alamo Bowl win over Texas

Washington football, in what may be its biggest bowl win in over 20 years, held on to beat the Texas Longhorns 27-20. The Longhorns, on their home soil, could not overcome the losses of both their running backs, including star Bijan Robinson due to opt-outs.

Texas was only able to accumulate 51 yards rushing on 18 carries, forcing quarterback Quinn Ewers to try and carry his team. While he finished with nearly 400 yards passing and a score, much of that was at the end of the game when the Huskies were in prevent defense.

In the end, Washington was one of the hottest teams in college football and finished its season with an impressive bowl victory.

A truly remarkable turnaround in one year by head coach Kalen DeBoer.

3. Michael Penix Jr. continued magical season

Michael Penix Jr. was the biggest snub of all the players that could have been Heisman finalists this season. The nation’s leader in passing yards has been a remarkable story and a key part in Washington’s turnaround. At the Alamo Bowl, Penix wasn’t at his best, but still showed why he’ll be a Heisman contender next year.

Penix finished the game 32-for-54 for 287 yards, throwing two touchdowns and an interception. These numbers are nowhere near the best we’ve seen from the southpaw, but he ran DeBoer’s offense and efficiently controlled the game. Washington dominated the time of possession by nearly 10 minutes and was 55 percent on third down while Texas was only 40 percent.

Penix’s revival after injuries and transferring to Washington is without question one of the best stories of this college football season.