This matchup will decide the Michigan-Washington national championship

HOUSTON — Before Michigan faced Alabama in the Rose Bowl, the Wolverines heard all about how big and strong Alabama was. Michigan proved the naysayers wrong by winning the battle up front, on both sides of the ball, en route to a playoff semifinal win.

The narrative around Washington, Michigan’s national championship opponent, is more about the Huskies’ skill players.

“We’re hearing we’re playing against the greatest offense in the history of college football,” Michigan defensive coordinator Jesse Minter said. “We look forward to the challenge.”

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is the catalyst, but the big fellas who keep him upright have been critical to Washington’s 14-0 season, and will go a long way in determining Monday’s outcome.

The Joe Moore Award, given to the country’s top offensive line, went to Michigan the past two years. Washington won it this season.

“I think it’s validated when you watch the film,” said Michigan defensive line coach Mike Elston. He said the Huskies are well-coached, talented group with elite tackles and active, athletic guys inside. Alabama had the biggest offensive line Michigan has faced this season Washington will be the best.

There is plenty of individual talent. Troy Fautanu is believed to be the best guard in the country and guard Parker Brailsford was a second-team All-Pac-12 selection. But the Huskies say the reason for their success is their brotherhood off the field and chemistry on it.

“They know how to play together,” said Washington offensive line coach Scott Huff. “It’s really that simple.”

Michigan’s defensive line is pretty good too, as evidenced by the Rose Bowl performance (six sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and just 20 points allowed over four quarters and an overtime possession).

“Geez, Louise, they got after the quarterback,” Huff said. “That was really impressive.” The Wolverines used stunts and blitzes to get pressure but also won plenty of one-on-one matchups.

Their goal is to smack Washington in the mouth early — Braiden McGregor’s words — just like they did against Alabama. If Penix is regularly given ample time in the pocket, he’s likely going to be effective. He was, after all, the Heisman Trophy runner-up with more far more prolific passing numbers than any quarterback Michigan has faced this season.

“Last week it was, ‘The SEC is so big and physical. How are we gonna handle them?’” Minter said. “Now it’s about the quarterback and the receivers. You’re still motivated by the doubters.”

(Michigan’s offensive line will be motivated too. Those guys didn’t give up the Joe Moore Award easily; they’re out to prove something on Monday night.)

As flashy and explosive as the Huskies are — they’re second in the country in passing plays of at least 30 yards — players on both sides believe the championship will be won in the trenches. Washington has allowed just 11 sacks this year; only three teams have permitted fewer.

Michigan defensive lineman Kris Jenkins can’t wait for that matchup to play out. He’s been very impressed with what he’s seen on film from Washington’s offensive line. And he’s confident in his teammates.

“When we see them Monday,” he said, “it’s going to be a clash.”