Michael Penix Jr. is an excellent quarterback who was robbed of the Heisman Trophy this year, but he missed a big opportunity in Monday’s national championship game against Michigan at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.
Penix Jr.’s Washington Huskies were down 17-3 in the second quarter and went for it on 4th-and-7 from the Michigan 47. Penix took a snap from the shotgun and had some time. He looked to his right and found Rome Odunze, but he missed the throw.
Washington turnover on downs! 😳
Michael Penix Jr. and Rome Odunze can't connect on the deep pass. #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/oo3bBV8xgQ
— ESPN (@espn) January 9, 2024
The ball fell incomplete for a turnover on downs.
Penix was incredibly accurate during Washington’s 37-31 win over Texas in their CFP semifinal game. He went 29/38 for 430 yards and 2 touchdowns and helped lead his Huskies to a victory. But he missed his favorite receiver against the Wolverines for what should have been a touchdown in the second quarter.
Washington’s defense was struggling to slow down Michigan’s rushing attack. They needed the touchdown to help close the gap, but Penix missed the open throw.
