Huskies Fall to Oregon in Rivalry Finale: What We Learned from a Tough 26-14 Loss
The final score wasn’t a shocker, but that doesn’t make it any easier to swallow. Washington dropped its regular season finale to rival Oregon, 26-14, in a game that was closer than the scoreboard might suggest-at least for the better part of three quarters. Let’s dig into what stood out, what went wrong, and where the Huskies go from here.
Offensive Stagnation: A Game of Missed Chances and Muddled Play Calling
For a while, it felt like Washington might hang around long enough to make things interesting. The defense was doing its part, keeping the Ducks to 20 points through three quarters.
But the offense? That’s where the wheels came off.
The fourth quarter, in particular, spotlighted some of the same issues that have quietly simmered all season. On a key 4th-and-2 from their own 32, with the game still within reach, the Huskies dialed up a short route to Denzel Boston-well short of the sticks.
Predictably, it didn’t convert. Oregon didn’t capitalize immediately, turning the ball over on downs themselves, but the missed opportunity loomed large.
It’s hard not to question that call. In a “gotta have it” moment, throwing short of the line to gain is a tough pill to swallow.
Whether that’s on the play design or the quarterback’s read, it’s an area that needs addressing. That kind of decision-making has cost Washington in tight games before, and it reared its head again at the worst time.
Quarterback Demond Williams Jr. had a rough outing, especially early. He started the game just 2-of-7 for 13 yards with two interceptions over the Huskies’ first five drives.
He eventually settled down to finish 15-of-30 for 129 yards, two touchdowns, and those two picks. But against top-tier competition-think Michigan, Ohio State, or Oregon-Williams has looked more human than heroic.
He’s shown flashes of brilliance this season, but in these big moments, he’s still learning how to take control of a game.
Bottom line: the offensive rhythm just wasn’t there. And in a rivalry game like this, that’s a recipe for disappointment.
Adam Mohammed: The Future Is Now, But Where Were the Carries?
If there was a bright spot on offense, it was Adam Mohammed. For the second straight week, the young back topped 100 yards on double-digit carries, once again flashing the kind of talent that should have Husky fans excited for what’s next.
He ran with purpose-showing quick feet, balance through contact, and the kind of vision that makes you wonder why he didn’t get the ball more. That’s the head-scratcher.
After a 19-yard run with just under eight minutes left in the third, Mohammed didn’t get another carry until early in the fourth. In a game where the offense was sputtering and both Jonah Coleman and Jordan Washington may have been dealing with injuries, Mohammed seemed like the obvious option to lean on.
Yet he finished with just 14 carries.
It’s also worth noting that Mohammed was handling kick return duties-something he did well, including a 36-yard return. But it does raise questions.
When a guy is clearly your most effective offensive weapon on the day, why stretch him thin? Why not build the game plan around him, especially when the passing game isn’t clicking?
These are the kinds of decisions that head coach Jedd Fisch will need to revisit in the offseason. The talent is there.
The usage? That’s still a work in progress.
Defense Deserves Credit - and a Bit More Help
Here’s the thing: Washington’s defense didn’t lose this game. In fact, it kept the Huskies in it for most of the night. Oregon was held to 20 points through three quarters, and the run defense in particular was stout, limiting Ducks running back Noah Whittington to just 47 yards.
Yes, the defense gave up a backbreaking 64-yard touchdown late that essentially sealed the game. But when you’re on the field that much, and your offense can’t sustain drives, cracks are going to show. This was the first time all season that the Huskies gave up more than 25 points-a testament to how well this unit has played, especially down the stretch.
What’s been most impressive is the emergence of young talent. Players like ZRS, Dylan Robinson, and RDA have stepped up, flashing the kind of upside that should have defensive coordinator Ryan Walters feeling optimistic heading into 2026. This group has turned a corner, and if they continue to develop, they could be the foundation for something special.
It’s a bit ironic, really. Early in the season, it was the offense carrying the load while the defense tried to find its identity.
Now, the roles have flipped. And if the Huskies can find a way to get both sides clicking at once, they’ll be a tough out for anyone.
A Salute to the Seniors and a Look Ahead
This game marked the end of the road for several key seniors, and they deserve their flowers. Grady Gross and Makell Esteen, among others, have been rock-solid contributors and leaders in this program. Their presence will be missed both on the field and in the locker room.
As for Jonah Coleman, he may have one more game left, but his regular season numbers speak for themselves: 1,726 yards and 24 touchdowns. That’s a legacy any back would be proud of, and he’s left a strong foundation for Mohammed and the next wave of Huskies to build on.
Final Thoughts
This loss stings-not just because it came against a rival, but because the Huskies were in it for so long. The defense gave them a chance.
Mohammed gave them a spark. But the offense, from the play calling to the execution, just didn’t deliver when it mattered most.
There’s still work to be done. But there’s also a lot to build on. The future is bright in Seattle-now it’s about putting all the pieces together.