WATCH: Michael Penix Jr.’s GF Olivia Carter shares wholesome snap of Washington QB having fun time with their dog

After Washington QB Michael Penix Jr.'s performance in the Sugar Bowl, attention temporarily shifted from the gridiron to a heartwarming snapshot shared by his girlfriend, Olivia Carter.

Amid the anticipation for the upcoming national championship clash against the Michigan Wolverines, Carter took to Instagram. She gave fans a glimpse into a different side of Penix through a shot of a candid and joyful moment with their furry companion.

In a departure from the intense football spotlight, the video captured Michael Penix Jr. reveling in a light-hearted moment with their dog.

Michael Penix Jr.'s gridiron triumph: From Sugar Bowl to national championship

Penix's on-field heroics, leading the No. 2 Huskies to a 37-31 victory over the Texas Longhorns in the Sugar Bowl, has set the stage for an epic national championship showdown. It will feature Washington against the No. 1 Michigan Wolverines.

With a stellar performance boasting 430 passing yards and two touchdowns, Penix's focus remains unwavering. Asked about his standout Sugar Bowl game, he responded:

"Nah, we got one more to go."

Olivia Carter, echoing the excitement of fans, took to Instagram, amplifying the anticipation for the impending clash against the Wolverines. In her story, she wrote:

"Say that then baby"

As the Huskies prepare for the championship face-off on January 8, 7:30 p.m. ET, the intimate snapshot shared by Carter adds a unique insight into Penix's journey.

Penix's resilience and recognition

Michael Penix Jr.'s college career has been marked by resilience. He overcame multiple injuries during his tenure at Indiana before transferring to Washington for the 2022 season.

Former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Tim Tebow, a keen observer of Penix's journey, commended the quarterback's tenacity and labeled him "ridiculous."

"Michael Penix Jr. is ridiculous, his resilience, he has become one of my favorite players because to overcome that many injuries, to bounce back, to keep fighting, to lead (Washington) to now the champion, I love it. He's become one of my favorite players."

Penix's numbers, surpassing the 4,500-yard passing mark for the season and showcasing a 7 of 10 record for passes of 15-plus yards, underscores his contribution to the Huskies' success.

In the eyes of Penix's teammate, Rome Odunze, the Heisman Trophy should have rightfully gone to the quarterback. Odunze asserted, emphasizing Penix's exceptional skills and ability to shine on the biggest stage:

"He's the best to do it in the nation"

Penix Jr.'s journey from overcoming injuries to steering the Huskies to a potential title has solidified his status as a legendary figure in Washington's football history.