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Washington under pressure to notch sacks against Cal’s Jared Goff

Obviously it’s a small sample size, but after three nonconference games there’s plenty to like about a young Huskies defense that includes seven new starters.

They’ve stopped opposing running backs, allowing just 93 rushing yards per game.

Their secondary hasn’t surrendered a touchdown pass while collecting four interceptions. They also rank first in the Pac-12 in red-zone defense and fourth in third- and fourth-down conversions.

At first glance the weak link is Washington’s inability to generate sacks, which could be a serious liability heading into Saturday’s 2 p.m. Pac-12 opener at Husky Stadium against North division rival California (3-0) and quarterback Jared Goff, a Heisman Trophy candidate.