The second half of the National Championship Game started painfully for Michael Penix Jr. and the Washington Huskies.
Washington narrowed the deficit to 17-10 before halftime and received the ball to start the third quarter. However, Michigan defensive back Will Johnson picked off a Penix pass on the first play.
Making matters worse, a Washington offensive lineman inadvertently stepped on Penix’s foot. The star quarterback had his right ankle checked on the sideline.
Penix currently having his ankle looked at after being stepped on. #UWvsMICH pic.twitter.com/FRQ2G3pNIF
— Rate the Refs App (@Rate_the_Refs) January 9, 2024
Michigan got the ball at Washington’s 32 following the takeaway, but the offense only went 12 yards on six plays before kicking a field goal.
Molly McGrath reported on the ESPN broadcast that Penix told Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze, “I’m good.” He returned to the field on the offense’s next drive, completing three of four passes for 26 yards before Grady Gross kicked a 45-yard field goal.
Dillon Johnson’s health is also a storyline to monitor Monday night. The Huskies running back sought medical attention on his left ankle after his first carry.
Like Penix, Johnson has stayed in the game. He’s turned 10 carries into 30 yards against Michigan’s top-ranked defense.
Penix delivered a legend-making performance when going 29-of-38 for 430 yards and two touchdowns in a Sugar Bowl win over Texas. He hasn’t enjoyed the same success against the Wolverines, tallying 170 yards on his first 31 throws.
The sixth-year senior has missed some chances Monday night, but there’s still time to lead a comeback. Washington trails 20-10 during the third quarter at Houston’s NRG Stadium.