“We’re excited about what Isaiah brings simply because it’s rare to have that gifted an athlete at quarterback,” Willingham said. “He’s truly a gifted one.”

Last Saturday, he threw for 168 yards and rushed for 102 on 17 carries. Louis Russo caught five of those tosses and running back Louis Rankin also piled up 145 yards on just 10 carries.

Defense remains an issue. The Huskies allowed 24 points or more six times last season. Allowing San Jose State to roll up 373 yards and 19 first downs doesn’t give an indication that trend will end soon.

There’s no doubt Washington’s place in college football history is well-earned. Its place in the present is what Willingham is trying to elevate.

He believes the tough times will end soon.

“I know this stuff is cyclical,” he said. “There’s going to be ups and there’s going to downs. Good programs and even great programs around the country are subject to the ups and downs. You only hope that they are short-lived.”

John Shinn366-3536jshinn@normantranscript.com