Episode Details

The Washington Huskies are primed for defensive dominance in the Big Ten in 2026, can Ryan Walters elevate them to elite status in college football? Locked On Huskies host Roman Tomashoff and Last Word On College Sports' Nick Lemkau break down the Huskies’ potential leap into the nation’s top five defenses, examining Walters’ track record and standout talents like Dylan Robinson, Xe'ree Alexander, and Jacob Manu. The hosts highlight the emergence of critical leaders, highlighting the roles of quarterback Demond Williams Jr. and center Landen Hatchett, who are ready to guide the offense through major transitions in the Big Ten after Carver Willis, Jonah Coleman, and Denzel Boston were selected in the NFL draft.

Key topics include under-the-radar leadership from transfer Oregon Ducks Jayden Limar and defensive tackle DeSean Watts, the impact of roster turnover, and how Washington’s recruiting wins of prospects like Kodi Greene, Tre Moore, Jon Ioane, Tevita Nonu, John Mills, and more may redefine the program’s future. With USA TODAY ranking Jedd Fisch shockingly low among Big Ten coaches, the conversation heats up: Does Fisch belong higher given Washington's rapid improvement and stellar recruiting?

 Don’t miss this breakdown of Washington’s journey to Big Ten contention.

00:00 - Intro

01:14 - Argument for Washington’s defense as a top-five national unit

05:31 - Xe'ree Alexander’s breakout and All-Big Ten potential

10:39 - Leadership spotlight: Landen Hatchett’s role on the offensive line

16:24 - Demond Williams’ development as the team’s key leader and quarterback

20:37 - Emerging leaders for Washington in 2026

24:25 - Is Jedd Fisch one of the Big Ten's most underrated coaches?

Become a Locked On Huskies Insider: joinsubtext.com/lockedonhuskies

Photo Credit: Joe Nicholson- Imagn Images

Locked On Huskies is part of the Locked On Podcast Network

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