Next challenge for Washington Huskies: No. 5 vs No. 13 Utah in stretch run

Washington running back Dillon Johnson says the Huskies are preparing to face Utah and put an end to their conference reign.

Dillon Johnson has only played a few games in the Pac-12 since joining Washington, but he knows that getting to the top of the conference in recent years has required getting through Utah. Johnson describes Utah as a team that knows the system, moves well together, and is physical. He believes that the most physical team will come out on top. Washington has the opportunity to end Utah's run on top of the conference with a win over the 13th-ranked Utes on Saturday.

A loss to Washington could end any hopes the Utes had of a three-peat, but a win over the Huskies would open up the race to Las Vegas. Utah coach Kyle Whittingham emphasized that they are focused on playing well in Seattle and not worried about the bigger picture.

Washington's challenging November schedule includes a road game at No. 12 Oregon State and the Apple Cup against Washington State. The Huskies are coming off a 52-42 win at Southern California and will face a tough Utah defense that is the best in the conference.

Utah quarterback Bryson Barnes rebounded from a rough outing in a loss to Oregon by throwing a career-high four touchdowns last week against Arizona State. He will need to be solid against a Washington defense that has been susceptible to the pass at times this season.

While Johnson stole the headlines last week, quarterback Michael Penix Jr. threw for 256 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the victory. Penix can take a big step towards enhancing his Heisman Trophy chances with a big game against Utah.

Washington's offensive line will face a challenge from Utah's defensive front, specifically defensive end Jonah Elliss, who is second in the country with 11½ sacks in nine games. Washington is 9-0 for only the fourth time in school history and is hoping for a better outcome than the last time it reached this mark in 2016.

The Huskies are looking to maintain their undefeated record and secure a win over Utah to solidify their position at the top of the conference.

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