Washington Football 2011: The 7 Best Offensive Players on the Squad

Washington has been trending upwards ever since the hiring of head coach Steve Sarkisian. They got a jump start with their win over USC in 2009, and validated themselves with a surprising Holiday Bowl victory just last season.

The real question is now can they keep it going – if you’re not moving forward you’re falling behind. Coach Sark will be counting on these seven offensive leaders to keep Washington in the running in the new Pac-12.

1. Chris Polk

The definition of a “no-brainer” is our choice of running back Chris Polk as the Huskies top offensive player. This potential Heisman Trophy candidate, who rushed for 1,415 yards last year, will have to be the workhorse of the UW offense.

With a new QB in place, Polk will have to shoulder even more responsibility and make plays happen. 

2. Jermaine Kearse

Polk if by land, Kearse if by air. Wide receiver Jermaine Kearse had a breakout season last year with 63 catches for 1,005 yards and twelve touchdowns.

He is finally harnessing his immense physical skills and opposing defensive backs will wake up with night sweats after dreaming about covering this talented player.

3. Keith Price

The Jake Locker era has ended as the Keith Price era dawns. Forced into action against University of Oregon at Autzen Stadium, Price acquitted himself well.

Having won the starting job over Nick Montana (yes, Joe’s son) Price will be looked to provide a steady hand at the helm of the Husky offense.

4. Devin Aguilar

Playing second fiddle to Jermaine Kearse is no easy feat, but Devin Aguilar is a virtuoso in his own right. He was a key contributor to the Huskies win at USC where he caught five passes for 83 yards and a touchdown.

He will be counted on to stop opposing defenses from double-teaming Kearse, and if they do, look for Aguilar to celebrate in the end zone many more times in 2011.  

5. Senio Kelemete

Kelemete started all 13 games in 2010 at left tackle, and was an unquestioned leader – as shown by his selection as a team captain. A winner of the offensive Weight Lifting Award, he possesses great strength as well as nimble feet.

He will be given the important task of protecting the blind side of QB Keith Price, and Kelemete should be up to the challenge. 

6. Erik Folk

Fondly known as the “SC Killer,” Folk had a bit of a down year in 2010 (making 13 out of 20 field goals.) However from less than 40 yards Folk was money, and also extended his perfect record on PATs, now standing at 68/68, the second best in Husky history.

Folk will be looking for a bounce back year in 2011, providing a reliable safety net for the Husky offense. 

7. Drew Schaefer

The other Husky offensive linemen to start all 13 games last year, Schaefer mans perhaps the most demanding position on the field – center. Besides his obvious physical talents Schaefer will be counted on for his brains, calling out the blocking schemes for his fellow offensive linemen.

He is well equipped for this responsibility, being named Academic All-Pac-10 honorable mention. 

Conclusion

With Jake Locker taking his talents to the NFL, this offensive core will be counted on to carry the Washington Husky football program to new heights. If they do, the roars of Husky Stadium will echo throughout the rest of the Pac-12.