Washington hosts Northwestern in Big Ten debut after Apple Cup loss

Washington is set to play its inaugural game in the Big Ten against Northwestern after suffering a disappointing defeat to Washington State in the Apple Cup. The Huskies, under new head coach Jedd Fisch, began the season with two strong victories but faced challenges in their last game, particularly in the red zone. Northwestern, with a record of 2-1, recently bounced back from an earlier loss to Duke by defeating Eastern Illinois decisively. The matchup is significant as it marks the first meeting between the two teams since 1984, with Washington leading the series 3-0. Northwestern's defense has been impressive, allowing only 13 points per game and limiting opponents to an average of 57.7 rushing yards. This defensive strength will be crucial as Washington looks to improve its offensive performance, especially after struggling in the red zone during their last outing. Key players to watch include Northwestern's quarterback Jack Lausch, who had a standout performance in his first start, throwing for 227 yards and two touchdowns. On the other side, Washington's wide receiver Giles Jackson had a remarkable game against Washington State, showcasing his ability to make big plays. With Washington having won 16 consecutive games at Husky Stadium, the home-field advantage could play a pivotal role in this matchup. Both teams are eager to establish momentum as they continue their respective seasons in the competitive Big Ten conference.