Saturday was a tough day for defending champions Michigan Wolverines. Quarterback Will Rogers and Washington sought sweet revenge after last season’s national championship loss. In the Big Ten, No. 10 Michigan faced a setback, falling 27-17 to Washington.
The atmosphere at Husky Stadium was electric as Washington fans rushed the field, celebrating their victory over Michigan. Rogers shone brightly, completing 21 of 31 passes for 271 yards and two touchdowns. He showcased his versatility by connecting with a variety of receivers.
Notably, this game marked the end of Rogers' impressive streak of 269 attempts without an interception, a record that was snapped when Michigan linebacker Ernest Hausman picked him off.
After the win, fans were quick to suggest that Michigan’s playoff hopes might be dashed.
“Michigan is eliminated from the playoffs,” a fan tweeted.
Last season, the NCAA started looking into Michigan's football program over claims that it broke the rules against scouting future opponents in person. The investigation focused on Connor Stalions, a staff analyst accused of leading a plan to steal play signals.
Fans didn't hesitate when referring to the scandal in their tweets.
“This is what happens when Michigan can’t cheat,” one wrote.
“Man I’m so happy for Will Rogers will always be a dawg HailState,” one wrote.
“What an absolute epic fail of a graphic….” another wrote.
“Gotta be the worst defending champs of all time. F**king embarrassing,” a fan wrote.
“This is what the result would have been without the cheating,” another wrote.
Former Michigan staff Stalions reportedly bought tickets to games at several Big Ten schools and had people record the opposing teams' sidelines.
Washington pulls away in the fourth quarter to beat Michigan
As the final seconds ticked away, Washington quarterback Will Rogers couldn’t help but wonder if Husky Stadium would soon be flooded with purple.
Rogers passed for 271 yards and tossed two touchdowns in the first half. With just over six minutes left, Jonah Coleman scored a crucial 1-yard touchdown to put Washington ahead.
The Huskies celebrated a 27-17 victory over No. 10 Michigan, marking a thrilling rematch of last season’s College Football Playoff championship game.
“I was curious if they were going to do it, but when they did it, it was just awesome,” Rogers said [H/t AP News]. “I’ve never been a part of that and it’s something I’ll remember the rest of my life for sure.”
Washington celebrated its impressive victory, marking the 18th straight win at Husky Stadium — the second-longest streak in the school’s history. Now, the Huskies prepare to hit the road again to face Iowa on Saturday, Oct. 12, at 11 a.m. in Iowa City.
Meanwhile, Michigan (4-2, 2-1) will have some time to reflect on this setback, as the Wolverines have a bye week in Week 7.
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