The UCLA Bruins’ Week 13 matchup against Washington looks very different right now. The Huskies reportedly lost two defensive players for the 2025 season.
Roman Tomashoff of Huskies Wire cited in an article that edge rusher Russell Davis II and defensive back Rahim Wright II will most likely be out all year for the Huskies. This is according to a report from OnMontlake’s Christian Caple, who spoke with UW coach Jedd Fisch during Big Ten media day in Las Vegas.
The loss of Davis, in particular, is tough for the Huskies. He missed most of last year, but played three games, including his last game on Nov. 15, 2024, when he wreaked havoc against UCLA’s offensive line.
According to Washington, Davis had all three of his solo tackles for loss against the Bruins as well as his 3 sacks, forced fumble and fumble recovery. His performance earned him Co-Defensive Big Ten honors. His future looked bright if he could use the performance as a stepping stone.
Without the Arizona transfer, the Huskies will have to rely on outside linebacker Isaiah Ward, as well as Deshawn Lynch, Jacob Lane, Hayden Moore, and possibly another Arizona transfer Ta’ita’i Uiagalelei, according to Tomashoff.
Wright played only in the season opener and was redshirted for the rest of the season, but will now likely miss this upcoming season as well.
Last year, the Bruins lost to the Huskies in a 31-19 game. The Huskies’ defense allowed an average of 23.8 points per game last season, but their offense averaged only 23.4 points per game, according to ESPN.
Washington’s quarterback, Demond Williams Jr., now has a full season under his belt. The sophomore signal caller has plenty of weapons with receiving threats to help him reach a higher level.
Even with the injuries, UCLA needs to be prepared for Washington’s potent offensive attack on Nov. 22 at the Rose Bowl. The Bruins must play an airtight game to gain a benefit from Washington’s reduced depth.
This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: Injuries to Washington Huskies create intrigue for 2025 matchup vs UCLA
Reporting by Ryan Lorenz, UCLA Wire / UCLA Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
