The University of Washington football program has released its 2025 schedule, which features a challenging slate of opponents. The Huskies will open the season at home against Kent State on September 6th, then travel to Michigan State on September 13th. After a bye week, Washington will host FCS opponent Portland State on September 27th. The Huskies will then open Pac-12 play on the road against Arizona on October 4th, followed by a home game against Stanford on October 11th.
The middle of Washington’s schedule features a tough stretch of games. The Huskies will travel to Oregon on October 18th, then host UCLA on October 25th. After a trip to Arizona State on November 1st, Washington will return home to face Colorado on November 8th. The Huskies will then travel to Utah on November 15th, before closing out the regular season at home against Washington State on November 22nd.
Washington’s 2025 schedule is one of the most challenging in the Pac-12. The Huskies will face five teams that finished in the top 25 of the College Football Playoff rankings in 2024: Michigan State, Oregon, UCLA, Utah, and Washington State. Washington will also face three teams that finished in the top 50 of the CFP rankings in 2024: Kent State, Portland State, and Arizona State.
Huskies Aim for Pac-12 Title in 2025
Building a Championship Roster
The Huskies are building a championship-caliber roster under head coach Kalen DeBoer. In the 2023 recruiting cycle, DeBoer and his staff landed three five-star recruits and 20 four-star recruits, bolstering the team’s talent pool across all positions. The Huskies also have a strong group of returning starters, including quarterback Michael Penix Jr., running back Cameron Davis, and wide receiver Jaren Kanak. With a deep and experienced roster, the Huskies are well-positioned to contend for the Pac-12 title in 2025.
Toughest Opponents
The Huskies’ 2025 schedule features some of the toughest opponents in the Pac-12. The team will face defending conference champion Utah twice, including a home game in Week 4 and a road game in Week 12. Other challenging opponents include Oregon, USC, UCLA, and Washington State. To win the Pac-12 title, the Huskies will need to navigate this gauntlet of top teams.
Schedule at a Glance
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| September 6 | Northern Illinois | Husky Stadium |
| September 13 | at Indiana | Memorial Stadium |
| September 20 | Vanderbilt | Husky Stadium |
| September 27 | at Utah | Rice-Eccles Stadium |
| October 4 | Oregon State | Husky Stadium |
| October 11 | at Oregon | Autzen Stadium |
| October 18 | USC | Husky Stadium |
| October 25 | at California | California Memorial Stadium |
| November 1 | at Colorado | Folsom Field |
| November 8 | UCLA | Husky Stadium |
| November 15 | Arizona State | Husky Stadium |
| November 22 | at Washington State | Martin Stadium |
Season Opener Against Georgia a Major Test
The Georgia Bulldogs, current reigning College Football Playoff champions, will provide a formidable challenge for the Washington Huskies in their season opener on September 1st in Atlanta, Georgia. The Bulldogs boast a talented roster led by quarterback Stetson Bennett, who led them to a 14-1 record and the national championship last season. Washington will need to play at their best to have a chance against such a strong opponent.
Non-Conference Schedule
After facing Georgia, Washington will have a bye week before hosting the Portland State Vikings, a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) team, on September 16th. The Huskies should be able to secure a victory over Portland State, but the following week’s matchup against the Michigan State Spartans will be a tougher test. Michigan State finished the 2022 season with a respectable 5-7 record and will be looking to improve under new head coach Mel Tucker.
| Opponent | Location | Date |
|—|—|—|
| Georgia | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA | September 1st |
| Portland State | Husky Stadium, Seattle, WA | September 16th |
| Michigan State | Husky Stadium, Seattle, WA | September 23rd |
| Stanford | Stanford Stadium, Stanford, CA | October 7th |
Road Trip to Michigan State in Week 3
The Huskies will embark on their first road trip of the 2025 season when they travel to East Lansing, Michigan, to face the Michigan State Spartans in Week 3. This will be the first meeting between the two schools since 2018, when Michigan State won 28-7 in Seattle.
The Spartans are coming off a 5-7 season in 2024, but they return several key players, including quarterback Payton Thorne and running back Elijah Collins. Michigan State also has a new head coach in Mel Tucker, who led Colorado to a 5-0 start in 2020 before finishing the season 5-7.
The Huskies will need to be at their best to pull off an upset in East Lansing. Michigan State has a talented defense, led by linebacker Jacoby Windmon and safety Xavier Henderson. The Huskies will also need to find a way to slow down Thorne, who is one of the best young quarterbacks in the Big Ten.
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 20, 2025 | Michigan State | Spartan Stadium, East Lansing, MI | 12:00 PM PT |
Home Game vs. Oregon a Potential Season-Changer
The Huskies’ home game against Oregon on September 30th has the potential to be a season-defining moment. If UW can secure a victory, they will gain momentum and confidence heading into the rest of their schedule.
Implications of a Huskies Win
A win against Oregon would send shockwaves through the Pac-12. It would establish UW as a legitimate contender in the conference title race and could propel them into the national rankings. Moreover, a victory would boost the team’s morale and give them a significant psychological advantage over their future opponents.
Oregon’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Oregon enters the game with a strong offense led by quarterback Bo Nix and running back Bucky Irving. However, their defense has been vulnerable at times, allowing an average of over 30 points per game. The Huskies will need to exploit Oregon’s defensive weaknesses while protecting their own quarterback, Michael Penix Jr.
Key Matchups to Watch
- UW’s Pass Rush vs. Oregon’s Offensive Line: The Huskies’ pass rushers will need to generate pressure on Nix to disrupt Oregon’s rhythm and force turnovers.
- UW’s Receivers vs. Oregon’s Secondary: The Huskies’ dynamic receiving corps, led by Jalen McMillan and Rome Odunze, will need to find ways to get open against a talented Oregon secondary.
- Oregon’s Running Game vs. UW’s Defense: Irving is one of the most dangerous running backs in the Pac-12. The Huskies’ defense will need to contain him and limit Oregon’s ground attack.
| Opponent | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Kent State | September 3rd | Husky Stadium |
| Portland State | September 10th | Husky Stadium |
| Michigan | September 17th | U-M Stadium |
| Oregon | September 30th | Husky Stadium |
| Stanford | October 8th | Stanford Stadium |
Battle for the Apple Cup with Washington State
The Apple Cup is an annual college football game between the University of Washington Huskies and the Washington State University Cougars. The game is played on the Friday after Thanksgiving and is one of the most intense rivalries in college football. The winner of the game receives the Apple Cup trophy, which is a silver apple with a gold stem. The trophy was first awarded in 1909 and has been awarded to the winner of the game every year since.
The Apple Cup is always a close game, and the winner is often decided by just a few points. In recent years, the Huskies have had the upper hand, winning six of the last ten games. However, the Cougars are always a threat to win, and the game is always one of the most anticipated of the year.
The Apple Cup is more than just a football game. It is a cultural event that brings together the two states of Washington. The game is a source of pride for both schools, and it is a tradition that has been passed down for generations.
The History of the Apple Cup
The Apple Cup was first played in 1909, and it has been played every year since then except for 1917 and 1918. The game was originally called the “Governor’s Trophy Game,” but it was renamed the “Apple Cup” in 1943. The trophy is a silver apple with a gold stem, and it is awarded to the winner of the game.
The Apple Cup has been a close game in recent years, with the Huskies winning six of the last ten games. However, the Cougars are always a threat to win, and the game is always one of the most anticipated of the year.
The Apple Cup and the Two States of Washington
The Apple Cup is more than just a football game. It is a cultural event that brings together the two states of Washington. The game is a source of pride for both schools, and it is a tradition that has been passed down for generations.
The Apple Cup is a reminder of the close ties between the two states of Washington. The game is a chance for the two states to come together and celebrate their shared love of football.
The Future of the Apple Cup
The Apple Cup is a tradition that is likely to continue for many years to come. The game is a source of pride for both schools, and it is a reminder of the close ties between the two states of Washington.
Non-Conference Slate Strengthens Huskies’ Resume
The University of Washington football team is set to face a challenging non-conference schedule in 2025, which could bolster their resume and improve their chances of earning a berth in the College Football Playoff.
Key Non-Conference Matchups
The Huskies will open their season at home against Kent State on Aug. 30. They will then travel to face Colorado State on Sept. 6 before hosting Portland State on Sept. 13. The marquee non-conference matchup for Washington will come on Sept. 20 when they travel to face Michigan in Ann Arbor.
Michigan: A Top-Tier Opponent
Michigan is perennially a top contender in the Big Ten Conference and has been ranked among the top 10 teams in the country in recent seasons. The Wolverines boast a talented roster, led by quarterback Cade McNamara and running back Blake Corum. Washington will need to play their best game to pull off an upset in Ann Arbor.
The Huskies will close out their non-conference schedule on Sept. 27 when they host Idaho. Washington is heavily favored to win this game, but it will be a good opportunity for the Huskies to fine-tune their execution before entering Pac-12 play.
A Balanced Schedule
The Huskies’ non-conference schedule is a good mix of challenging and manageable opponents. Washington should be favored to win their games against Kent State, Colorado State, Portland State, and Idaho, but the Michigan game will be a true test of their abilities.
Potential Impact on CFP Resume
If the Huskies can go 4-0 in their non-conference games, it will significantly strengthen their resume for the College Football Playoff. A win over Michigan would be particularly impressive and could vault Washington into the top 10 in the national rankings.
New Coaching Staff Looks to Make an Immediate Impact
The University of Wisconsin football team has added several new coaches to its staff for the 2025 season. Among the most notable additions is offensive coordinator Phil Longo, who comes to Madison after a successful stint at Ole Miss. Longo is known for his innovative offensive schemes, which have produced some of the most prolific offenses in college football. He is expected to bring a similar level of success to the Badgers.
Another key addition to the staff is defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard, who returns to Wisconsin after a successful stint as the defensive coordinator at the University of Florida. Leonhard is a former Badgers player and was a key member of the team’s 2004 Big Ten championship team. He is known for his aggressive defensive schemes and is expected to bring a new level of intensity to the Badgers’ defense.
The Badgers also added several new assistant coaches to their staff, including running backs coach Al Johnson, wide receivers coach Mike Brown, and tight ends coach Jay Boulware. Johnson and Brown are both former Badgers players, while Boulware comes to Madison after a successful stint at the University of Kentucky.
2025 Schedule
Out of Conference
The Badgers will play three non-conference games in 2025. They will open the season with a home game against the University of Northern Iowa on September 6. They will then travel to Columbus, Ohio to face the Ohio State Buckeyes on September 13. The Badgers will conclude their non-conference schedule with a home game against the University of South Florida on September 20.
Big Ten Conference
The Badgers will play nine conference games in 2025. They will open the Big Ten season with a home game against the University of Illinois on September 27. They will then travel to Minneapolis, Minnesota to face the University of Minnesota on October 4. The Badgers’ remaining Big Ten Conference schedule is as follows:
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| October 11 | Purdue Boilermakers | Madison, WI |
| October 18 | Northwestern Wildcats | Evanston, IL |
| October 25 | Iowa Hawkeyes | Iowa City, IA |
| November 1 | Indiana Hoosiers | Madison, WI |
| November 8 | Michigan Wolverines | Ann Arbor, MI |
| November 15 | Penn State Nittany Lions | Madison, WI |
| November 22 | Nebraska Cornhuskers | Lincoln, NE |
Key Players to Watch in 2025
Quarterback
Sam Huard is the current starting quarterback and is expected to be the leader of the offense in 2025. He is a talented passer with a strong arm and good accuracy. He is also a good runner and can make plays with his feet.
Running Back
Richard Newton is the leading running back for the Huskies and is expected to be a key player in 2025. He is a powerful runner with good speed and agility. He is also a good receiver out of the backfield.
Wide Receiver
Jalen McMillan is the top wide receiver for the Huskies and is expected to be a key player in 2025. He is a big, physical receiver with good speed and athleticism. He is also a good blocker.
Tight End
Devin Culp is the starting tight end for the Huskies and is expected to be a key player in 2025. He is a good blocker and receiver, and he is also a good athlete.
Offensive Line
The offensive line is expected to be a strength for the Huskies in 2025. The line is big, physical, and experienced. They are expected to be able to open up holes for the running game and protect the quarterback.
Defensive Line
The defensive line is expected to be a strength for the Huskies in 2025. The line is big, physical, and athletic. They are expected to be able to put pressure on the quarterback and stop the run.
Linebacker
The linebackers are expected to be a strength for the Huskies in 2025. The linebackers are fast, athletic, and physical. They are expected to be able to cover receivers and stop the run.
Secondary
The secondary is expected to be a strength for the Huskies in 2025. The secondary is fast, athletic, and experienced. They are expected to be able to cover receivers and make plays on the ball.
Special Teams
The special teams are expected to be a strength for the Huskies in 2025. The special teams are led by punter Race Porter and kicker Peyton Henry. Porter is one of the best punters in the country, and Henry is a reliable kicker.
Expectations and Predictions for the Huskies
The Washington Huskies football team is expected to be a contender in the Pac-12 North in 2025. The Huskies have a talented roster led by quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and running back Richard Reese. The defense is also expected to be strong, led by linebacker Jeremiah Martin and defensive end Zion Tupuola-Fetui. The Huskies are looking to improve upon their 10-3 record from 2024 and win the Pac-12 Championship Game for the first time since 2016.
9. Key Games
The Huskies have several key games on their schedule in 2025, including:
- September 6 at Michigan
- September 13 vs. Stanford
- September 20 at Oregon
- October 4 vs. UCLA
- October 18 at Arizona State
- November 1 vs. Oregon State
- November 8 at California
- November 15 vs. Utah
- November 22 at Washington State
The Huskies will need to win at least seven of these games to have a chance at winning the Pac-12 North. The most important games on the schedule are the games against Oregon, UCLA, and Utah. The Huskies will need to win all three of these games to win the Pac-12 Championship Game.
| Game | Date | Time | TV |
|---|---|---|---|
| at Michigan | September 6 | 12:00 PM | FOX |
| vs. Stanford | September 13 | 7:30 PM | ESPN |
| at Oregon | September 20 | 4:30 PM | ABC |
| vs. UCLA | October 4 | 12:30 PM | FOX |
| at Arizona State | October 18 | 10:30 PM | ESPN |
| vs. Oregon State | November 1 | 3:00 PM | Pac-12 Network |
| at California | November 8 | 12:30 PM | Pac-12 Network |
| vs. Utah | November 15 | 7:30 PM | ESPN |
| at Washington State | November 22 | 1:00 PM | FOX |
Breaking Down the 2025 UW Football Schedule
1. Season Opener: vs. Kent State
The Huskies kick off their 2025 campaign at home against the Kent State Golden Flashes. The last meeting between these two teams was in 2021, which UW won 45-20.
2. Week 2: at Boise State
UW heads to Boise to face the Boise State Broncos. The Broncos have been a tough opponent for the Huskies in recent years, winning three of the last four matchups.
3. Week 3: vs. Montana
The Huskies return home to face the Montana Grizzlies. Montana is a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) team that always poses a challenge for FBS programs.
4. Week 4: at Cal
UW travels to Berkeley to renew its rivalry with the Cal Golden Bears. Cal will be looking for revenge after UW’s 28-21 victory in 2024.
5. Week 5: Open Date
The Huskies will have a much-needed bye week in Week 5 to prepare for the second half of the season.
6. Week 6: vs. Arizona
UW returns home to face the Arizona Wildcats. The Wildcats have been a struggling program in recent years, but the Huskies will need to be wary of their talented quarterback.
7. Week 7: at Oregon State
The Huskies travel to Corvallis to face the Oregon State Beavers. Oregon State is a tough opponent at home, and UW will need to be at its best to come away with a victory.
8. Week 8: vs. USC
The Huskies host the USC Trojans in a highly anticipated Pac-12 South matchup. USC is expected to be a contender for the conference championship, so this will be a big test for UW.
9. Week 9: at UCLA
UW heads to Los Angeles to face the UCLA Bruins. The Bruins are another tough opponent, and the Huskies will need to play their best to avoid their third straight loss in the rivalry.
10. Week 10: vs. Utah
The Huskies host the Utah Utes in a pivotal Pac-12 South matchup. Utah has been a thorn in UW’s side in recent seasons, winning three of their last four meetings. The Huskies will need to be at their best to snap this skid and stay in contention for the conference title.
| Week | Opponent | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kent State | Husky Stadium | September 6 |
| 2 | at Boise State | Albertsons Stadium | September 13 |
| 3 | Montana | Husky Stadium | September 20 |
| 4 | at Cal | California Memorial Stadium | September 27 |
| 5 | Open Date | ||
| 6 | Arizona | Husky Stadium | October 11 |
| 7 | at Oregon State | Reser Stadium | October 18 |
| 8 | USC | Husky Stadium | October 25 |
| 9 | at UCLA | Rose Bowl | November 1 |
| 10 | Utah | Husky Stadium | November 8 |
| 11 | at Arizona State | Sun Devil Stadium | November 15 |
| 12 | Washington State | Husky Stadium | November 22 |
UW 2025 Football Schedule: A Season of High Expectations
The University of Washington football team is set to embark on a challenging and exciting 2025 season. With a talented roster and a demanding schedule, the Huskies will aim to return to the Pac-12 Conference championship game and make a run at a College Football Playoff berth.
The Huskies’ 2025 campaign will kick off on September 6 at home against the Kent State Golden Flashes. UW will then travel to face the Arizona Wildcats on September 13 and the Oregon Ducks on September 20. The non-conference schedule concludes with a home game against the Eastern Washington Eagles on September 27.
The Pac-12 slate begins on October 4 at home against the California Golden Bears. UW will then face a tough road trip to the Colorado Buffaloes on October 11 before returning home to host the Washington State Cougars on October 18. October concludes with a challenging matchup against the Utah Utes in Salt Lake City on October 25.
November starts with a home game against the Oregon State Beavers on November 1. UW then travels to the Arizona State Sun Devils on November 8 and the Stanford Cardinal on November 15. The regular season concludes with a home game against the rival UCLA Bruins on November 22.
The Huskies have a talented roster that includes several key returning players, including quarterback Michael Penix Jr., running back Cameron Davis, and wide receiver Rome Odunze. With a favorable schedule, UW has a realistic chance to compete for the Pac-12 championship and earn a spot in the College Football Playoff.
People Also Ask About UW 2025 Football Schedule
When does the UW 2025 football season start?
The UW 2025 football season begins on September 6, 2025.
Who is UW’s first opponent in 2025?
UW’s first opponent in 2025 is the Kent State Golden Flashes.
Where will UW play the Oregon Ducks in 2025?
UW will play the Oregon Ducks in Seattle, Washington in 2025.
When is UW’s home game against the Arizona State Sun Devils in 2025?
UW’s home game against the Arizona State Sun Devils in 2025 is on November 8.
