Michael Penix Jr. and Washington have showcased their big-play ability early in the Sugar Bowl, taking a 7-0 lead over Texas just 4 minutes into the first quarter.

Penix connected with Ja’Lynn Polk on a 77-yard pass on first-and-10 from the Washington 21 on the fourth offensive play of the day for UW. The Huskies’ electric wide receiver nearly took it to the house before being stopped 2 yards short of the goal line.

Dillon Johnson took care of the rest and punched it in for his 15th touchdown of the season to give the Huskies the early advantage.

Washington has averaged 37.7 points per game while Texas puts up 36.2 an outing. This could very well be a shootout at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

Regardless of who comes out in front in this one, there will be a first-time winner in the College Football Playoff national championship game. Michigan beat Alabama in overtime at the Rose Bowl to punch its ticket to next Monday’s championship game in Houston.