Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was left battered and bruised after Monday’s National Championship Game against Michigan.
Penix was seen gingerly walking off the field after the Huskies lost the title game to Michigan in a 34-13 affair. The Washington QB was seen grabbing his midsection as maize and blue confetti rained down on NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.
Michigan defensive end Jaylen Harrell was able to share a brief moment with Penix before the Washington star disappeared into the tunnel.
Michael Penix gave it his all.
What a college career 👏
pic.twitter.com/PQFFYQP0XP— PFF (@PFF) January 9, 2024
Michael Penix Jr. heads to the locker room holding his stomach.
Kalen DeBoer right by his side.
Huskies season ends in heartbreak and hurt. pic.twitter.com/SVdTICiozi
— Jake García (@Jake_M_Garcia) January 9, 2024
Penix took a beating throughout the contest. He managed to avoid several sacks by getting rid of the ball early. But the damage dealt to his body by a vicious Michigan defense couldn’t be quantified in the box score. Penix also got his foot accidentally stepped on by a Washington O-lineman.
Kenneth Grant sacked Michael Penix Jr. and then hit his trademark celebration 🏹#NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/Ssi9kGDajf
— ESPN (@espn) January 9, 2024
However, the price Penix’s body paid after the contest was nothing compared to the emotional pain the 23-year-old felt from the loss. Penix spoke of that inner pain but also said there was nothing but love and gratitude from the Washington squad after the game.
“We’re not going to point fingers or nothing like that. There’s a lot of love in the locker room,” said Penix.
“I’m hurt (emotionally),” Huskies’ QB Michael Penix Jr. says.
“In the locker room, we have a lot of love.” @thenewstribune pic.twitter.com/mGCBTIulV2
— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) January 9, 2024
Penix went 27/51 for 255 yards with 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions against Michigan. He uncharacteristically missed some big throws in the game.
