When Bryce Underwood, quarterback for Michigan Wolverines launched a 24‑7 showdown against the Washington Huskies on Saturday, October 18, 2025, the roar of the crowd at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor echoing like a reminder that a team can rebound quickly. Sherrone Moore, head coach of the Wolverines, promised a return to form after an 18‑point loss to USC a week earlier, and the result—24‑7—proved his confidence wasn’t misplaced. The game mattered not just for the win‑loss column; it reshaped the Big Ten Conference picture, giving Michigan a 5‑2 overall, 3‑1 conference record and pushing Washington to 5‑2, 2‑2 in league play. Michigan took advantage of three turnovers forced by its defense, while Washington quarterback Demond Williams Jr. threw three interceptions that proved decisive.
Game Overview
The Wolverines opened the contest with a 7‑0 lead after Underwood found tight end Mike Caldwell in the red zone. Washington answered in the second quarter, capping a 45‑yard drive with a short run by Jonah Coleman to tie the game at 7‑7. The third quarter saw Jordan Marshall burst through the line for a 15‑yard touchdown, reclaiming the lead for Michigan. Marshall’s 133 rushing yards, highlighted by a 42‑yard sprint midway through the third, kept the Huskies on their heels.
Key Plays and Turnovers
The defensive battle turned when Cole Sullivan, Michigan linebacker, swooped in for the first interception of the night, snatching a pass intended for Washington wideout Denzel Boston. That turnover set up a short field drive ending with Underwood’s second touchdown pass to wide receiver Tyler Grant, extending the lead to 21‑7.
Washington tried to rally late in the third, but the Huskies’ offense sputtered. After a failed middle‑screen that gained just a first down, Williams Jr. was picked off again, this time by safety J. Oden, who was tackled immediately on the Michigan 29‑yard line. The Wolverines’ defense, still smarting from a 31‑point outing against USC, showed a new level of aggression, recording three interceptions in a span of just eight minutes.
In the fourth quarter, Michigan’s special teams kept the pressure on. Kicker B. Sunderland launched a 65‑yard kickoff that resulted in a touchback, giving the Wolverines the ball at the 20‑yard line. A disciplined drive finished with a field goal by Alex Cormier, sealing a 24‑7 victory.
Coaches' Reactions
“It felt like Michigan football and what it should feel like,” Sherrone Moore said in the post‑game press conference. “We kept our composure, forced the turnovers we needed, and finished strong.”
Defensive captain Cole Sullivan added, “We needed to man up and come together as a defense. We haven’t been playing the way we wanted to, and it was time to stop the bleeding. I think we took a step forward.”
Washington’s coach, Chris Petersen, lamented the missed opportunities: “We had some good looks early, but the turnovers cost us. We’ll regroup and focus on the next game.”
Implications for the Big Ten Race
With the win, Michigan jumps to second place in the East Division, trailing only Ohio State by a half‑game. The Wolverines’ defense, now ranked third in the conference for points allowed per game, could become a decisive factor in the race for the championship game. Conversely, Washington’s loss drops them to a tie for third in the North Division, making each remaining conference matchup a must‑win to stay in contention.
Analysts at NBC Sports note that Michigan’s ability to force turnovers after a lopsided loss is a sign of resilience that could pay dividends in late‑season matchups against ranked opponents like Penn State and Iowa.
Historical Context
Michigan’s 24‑7 margin mirrors the defensive dominance they displayed in the 1997 national‑championship season, when the Wolverines held opponents to fewer than 10 points in six of their final eight games. The last time the Wolverines defeated a Washington team was in the 2012 season opener, a 31‑0 shutout that set the tone for a 12‑win campaign. The Huskies, meanwhile, have struggled on the road this season, with this loss marking their first away defeat of the year.
Both programs entered the 2025 season with high expectations. Michigan, under Moore’s leadership, sought to return to the College Football Playoff after missing out in 2024. Washington, led by Petersen, aimed to solidify its place among the Big Ten’s elite after a surprising conference switch in 2023.
Key Facts
- Date: October 18, 2025
- Location: Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, MI
- Final Score: Michigan Wolverines 24, Washington Huskies 7
- Top Performer: Jordan Marshall – 133 rushing yards, 1 TD
- Turnovers: Michigan forced 3 interceptions; Washington forced 0
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect Michigan’s chances of reaching the College Football Playoff?
The victory improves Michigan’s overall record to 5‑2 and lifts them to 3‑1 in the Big Ten, keeping them within striking distance of the top‑two spots that typically secure playoff berths. A strong defensive showing and a win against a conference opponent boost their résumé, especially if they can beat remaining ranked foes.
What were the main reasons behind Washington’s offensive struggles?
Washington quarterback Demond Williams Jr. threw three interceptions, two of which came on consecutive drives. In addition, the Huskies could not establish a steady running game, gaining just 78 yards on the ground, and their offensive line allowed multiple pressures that forced hurried throws.
Which players stood out for Michigan on defense?
Linebacker Cole Sullivan led the unit with an interception and nine tackles. Safety J. Oden added a second pick, while defensive end Ernie Hman recorded three sacks, disrupting Washington’s occasional quarterback runs.
What does this result mean for Washington’s position in the Big Ten North?
The loss drops Washington to 2‑2 in conference play, tying them with Minnesota and leaving them a game behind division leader Wisconsin. Their road record slips to 0‑1, making upcoming home games crucial for staying in the race.
How did Michigan’s special teams contribute to the win?
Kicker B. Sunderland delivered a 65‑yard kickoff that resulted in a touchback, giving Michigan favorable field position. Additionally, field‑goal specialist Alex Cormier added a 33‑yard field goal in the fourth quarter to stretch the lead.
