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Washington faces Minnesota in Big Ten opener before USC matchup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 6:50 PM

Last updated Aug 24, 2026

Washington faces Minnesota in Big Ten opener before USC matchup

Summary

Washington will play Minnesota on September 26 at Husky Stadium in their Big Ten opener. This matchup is viewed as a potential trap game, occurring just a week before a significant game against USC on October 3. CBS Sports analyst Brad Crawford emphasized the stakes, noting that a loss to Minnesota could diminish the importance of the USC game and leave the Huskies with little margin for error in their season. Washington has been working to build consistency under coach Jedd Fisch, and the Golden Gophers' style of play poses a challenge that could exploit any distractions.

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By the Numbers

•Washington hosts Minnesota on September 26.
•The game is seen as a trap before facing USC.
•Analyst Brad Crawford highlights the game's significance.
•Dropping the opener could reduce stakes for USC matchup.
•Washington aims for consistency under coach Jedd Fisch.

Latest Updates

6:50 PMYahoo Sports — Washington’s biggest 2026 Big Ten trap game comes before USC showdown

What they're saying

"
Minnesota arrives at Husky Stadium one week before Washington’s marquee trip to USC. A stumble in the Big Ten opener could drain the significance from that showdown and leave the Huskies with virtually no margin for error.
— Yahoo Sports

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