Seattle, WA — Husky Stadium
The Washington Huskies wrapped up their second and final full scrimmage of the Spring season Saturday afternoon inside Husky Stadium, running over 125 plays in a highly competitive session. This was the last major tune-up before next Friday night’s official Spring Game under the lights.

The scrimmage featured a range of situational work, including goal-line sets, two-minute drills, overtime simulations, and drives starting at various field positions. Intensity was high, and while there were bright moments on both sides of the ball, the defense largely stole the show.

Defensive Standouts: A Dominant Afternoon

Coordinator Ryan Walters’ defense flexed its muscles throughout the afternoon, unofficially tallying:

2 interceptions
6 pass breakups
11 tackles for loss (TFLs)
7 quarterback hurries

Among the top performers was redshirt freshman EDGE Jacob Lane, who made an impact early with a pass deflection at the line and a tackle for loss within the first few series. Lane finished the day with multiple “stops” (tackles within three yards of the line of scrimmage), demonstrating improved play recognition in Walters’ new defensive scheme.

“I felt confident in the way I played today,” Lane said post-scrimmage. “I worked hard on my preparation all week, just trying to settle into the new scheme. It’s starting to pay off.”

Fellow EDGE rusher Isaiah Ward also shined, creating constant pressure. Ward recorded three quarterback hurries, 1.5 sacks (contact-free, per scrimmage rules), and contributed to a safety alongside transfer Ta’ita’i Uiagalelei from Arizona.

At the back end, the Huskies’ secondary made life difficult for quarterbacks. Tacario Davis — after a cautious start to Spring practices due to injury — returned in full form, breaking up two passes, including a highlight-reel swat with his 6-foot-4 frame.

Freshman Rahshawn Clark continued his ball-hawking ways, notching his seventh interception of the Spring period, while transfer CJ Christian (Florida International) added another pick on an overthrown middle-route ball.

There was even some special teams excitement — Leroy Bryant blocked a 43-yard field goal attempt, scooped by Paul Mencke Jr. and returned for a defensive touchdown.

Northern Arizona transfer Alex McLaughlin impressed near the line of scrimmage, notching two tackles for loss from the box safety spot, consistently diagnosing run plays and knifing into the backfield.

Wide Receivers: Young Talent Steps Up

With top wideouts Denzel Boston, Rashid Williams, and Omari Evans sidelined due to minor injuries, the door opened for fresh faces to shine.

True freshman Chris Lawson seized the opportunity, unofficially leading all receivers with:

7 catches
67 receiving yards
2 touchdowns

Lawson’s first touchdown was an impressive, twisting catch off a Kai Horton pass. His second came in overtime, hauling in a quick dart from sophomore quarterback Demond Williams Jr. at the goal line.

Justice Williams had a breakout moment, hauling in two long passes from true freshman QB Dash Beierly — including a 35-yard toe-tap touchdown and a 30-yard back-shoulder catch.

Fellow Mater Dei alum Marcus Harris contributed three catches for 42 yards, including a deep 25-yard post route snag from Horton. Walk-on Jace Burton quietly put together a strong day with five receptions for 51 yards, and Audric Harris added a 30-yard reception as well.

The reps were invaluable for the Huskies’ depth evaluation at receiver, revealing promising potential among the younger players.

Quarterbacks: Growth from Top to Bottom

Demond Williams Jr., the presumed starting quarterback, recovered from a slow start to finish strong. After an early three-and-out, he unofficially posted:

Over 150 passing yards
1 passing touchdown
1 interception
30 rushing yards, including a 17-yard rushing touchdown on a bootleg play

Williams’ mobility was evident, drawing praise even from defenders like Lane for his speed and elusiveness outside the pocket.

Backup quarterback Kai Horton delivered a steady performance, throwing three touchdowns against one interception, and finishing with around 125 passing yards. Horton excelled particularly in red zone drills, connecting on back-to-back goal-line touchdown throws.

Perhaps the most intriguing performance came from true freshman Dash Beierly, who showcased poise beyond his years. His two deep completions — traveling over 30 yards in the air — were arguably the best throws of the afternoon. Beierly’s chemistry with Justice Williams and accuracy under pressure were notable and suggest a bright future.

Quick Hits:

The scrimmage operated with a no-contact rule for quarterbacks but live tackling otherwise.
Linebackers were active, but the defensive line consistently disrupted the backfield.
Offensive line coach Scott Huff rotated multiple players at tackle and guard, continuing the search for the best starting five.
Several veterans (Boston, Williams, Evans) are expected to return in time for Fall Camp.

Final Thoughts:

Washington’s second Spring scrimmage made one thing clear: the defense is ahead of the offense right now, particularly in the trenches and secondary. But key flashes from the younger offensive players — especially Lawson, Beierly, and Justice Williams — offer reason for optimism as the team builds toward the 2025 season.

The Huskies will now turn their full attention to Friday night’s Spring Game, giving fans a first official look at the evolving roster under new leadership and schemes.