Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) celebrates throwing a touchdown to wide receiver Rome Odunze (1) against Washington State during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)
No. 1 Michigan (14-0, Big Ten) vs. No. 2 Washington (14-0, Pac-12) face off Monday at NRG Stadium in Houston for the College Football Playoff Championship. Here’s a quick look at highlights before the Huskies take aim at their first national title in football since 1991.
How to watch: 4:30 p.m. (Pacific), on ESPN, ESPN2 (Pat MacAfee Show), ESPNU (Command Center), ESPNEWS (SkyCast); 93.3 KJR radio
FanDuel Sportsbook Line: Michigan by 4 1/2
Series record: Michigan leads 8-5
WHAT’S AT STAKE
Michigan is playing for its first national championship since 1997 and Washington for its first since 1991. The Wolverines, who have won nine national titles, beat Alabama 27-20 in overtime at the Rose Bowl to reach the championship game. Washington, which has two national titles, beat Texas 37-31 at the Sugar Bowl to advance. The game also sets the stage for Washington’s move from the disintegrating Pac-12 to the Big Ten. The Wolverines and Huskies meet again Oct. 5 for a regular-season game in Seattle.
KEY MATCHUP
Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. vs. Michigan defense. The Heisman Trophy runner-up is the nation’s leading passer for the second straight year. The Wolverines’ defense has no weaknesses, having allowed an FBS-low seven touchdown passes and a front seven that can wreak havoc. Penix can make all the throws and, like he has done every game with his deep and talented group of receivers, will test the secondary with deep throws. The Huskies offensive line, which won the Joe Moore Award as the nation’s best, has allowed just 11 sacks and will face a pass-rush that attacks in…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/no-1-michigan-no-2-130218525.html
Author : Kitsap Sun
Publish date : 2024-01-08 13:02:18
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