Three takeaways from No. 3 Washington’s win over No. 5 Oregon in final Pac-12 title game

No. 3 Washington capped off an undefeated 13-0 season, winning the final Pac-12 Championship Game on Friday after knocking off No. 5 Oregon, 34-31. Here are three takeaways from the Huskies’ historic win, ending an era: 

Did Michael Penix Jr. improve Heisman Trophy chances? Not only did Penix lead Washington to a spotless record in arguably the toughest conference in the nation, but he saved his best performance for last. In true Penix fashion, his numbers weren’t overwhelming, but his impact was. Penix finished 27-of-39, throwing for 319 yards (8.2 YPC) with a touchdown and an interception. He was named the Pac-12 title game MVP while his teammates chanted “Heisman.” 

Overall, Penix led Washington to the most wins in program history and five over ranked opponents, taking down Oregon twice, No. 11 Oregon State, No. 18 Utah and No. 20 USC. And Penix has helped the Huskies punch their ticket to the College Football Playoff.