What Would Jake Locker's Absence Mean for the Washington Huskies?

One of the potential nightmares for the UW Huskies leading into the 2008 season is the loss of star player and leader Jake Locker.

On Thursday, Locker came up lame on a run with what the Huskies staff is calling a hamstring sprain. Luckily, it is not as serious of an injury (potentially, the injury could nag him all season or it could go away quickly) and he should be back soon.

In the meantime, backup Ronnie Fouch is leading the offense. He has yet to take a snap at the collegiate level.

Fouch is a good passer and a smart offensive player; putting up 5,069 passing yards and 57 touchdowns to 12 interceptions in high school. He can move but is no Jake Locker. He is much more of a pro-style quarterback.

Behind Fouch is Luther Leonard, a recent recruit, and walk-on Taylor Bean. Because of Leonard's inexperience and Bean's walk-on status, Fouch is so far the undisputed backup in the Washington system.

The talent in the offense is much improved, but it requires strong leadership from Locker. The loss of Locker would prove to be a huge blow to the chances of Tyrone Willingham holding onto his job at Washington.

Willingham does not have an outstanding track record of motivating the troops at game time, and at the very least, Locker would help to provide the spark Washington needs. Fouch has been able to gain the respect of his teammates and would be solid, but the lack of game experience is crucial.

A good side note to point out is that highly touted freshman Chris Polk has history with Fouch, since they both attended the same high school. So potentially a powerful bond could be set up between them.

The Washington coaches have been very frank about the need to give Fouch game experience this season, no matter what happens with Locker. Locker's leg injury and the missed practice may mean a baptism by fire against Oregon. Hopefully, Fouch is up to the task.

Locker's injury is scary for Husky fans, as I'm sure it is for Tyrone Willingham especially. Without Locker, there is a vastly diminished chance of reaching that coveted bowl game Washington has been seeking the past few years.