UW Football hosts 2025 introductory press conference

UW Football allowed the local media to meet with HC Jedd Fisch, his coaching staff, and select players before the start of fall camp. Providing a preview of what to expect for the 2025 season, with fall practice starting tomorrow for the Huskies. HC Jedd Fisch, OC Jimmy Dougherty, and DC Ryan Walters each gave full press conference interviews. The floor was later opened for smaller round table discussions with other coaches and players. Jedd Fisch spoke first, followed by his offensive and defensive coordinators. Here is what the Huskies’ head coach and coordinators had to say about this upcoming season.

Jedd Fisch is ready for his second season at UW

After all the changes season one came with, Jedd Fisch says this year feels more grounded. Reiterating his comments from last week at Big Ten Media Day, that his team is ready to take the next step this season. He also said that while other coaches around the country are closing off their practices to the media and the public, he wants to keep his practices open to the public. Believing his players need to get used to playing in front of anybody.

The Huskies are bigger and faster than a year ago

Another key point Fisch made was that his team is bigger (they’ve gained 700lbs from a year ago) and faster (gaining 1.6 MPH) as a team in 2025. He is confident the offensive line is better than a year ago and expects a big battle for O-line positions this fall. The Huskies also brought in five freshmen wide receivers to complement Denzel Boston, Kevin Green, and Audric Harris. Fisch spoke glowingly of Audric Harris and what he saw from Harris in the spring. He also added that Kevin Green is healthy for the start of fall practice.

Coach Fisch wants UW to be a pro program, emphasizing recruiting

Finally, Fisch talked about the focus of his program is to be run as pro program. He appreciates how everyone he works with understands their role in making that happen. Fisch acknowledged how tough and strong the Big Ten conference is. He discussed the impact that has had on the Huskies’ recruiting efforts. He likes what he and his staff have been able to do in winning important recruiting battles recently. Though he understands there will still be important recruiting battles ahead.

OC Jimmy Dougherty preaches fundamentals and the desire to create explosive plays

Following Jedd Fisch’s speech, OC Jimmy Dougherty spoke with the press. Coach Dougherty says the offense is focused on taking care of the football and playing clean football. He wants the offense to avoid penalties and turnovers, so they do not beat themselves. Dougherty believes the offense has the talent to create explosive plays in both the passing game and running game. He emphasized QB Demond Williams’ poise and belief in himself. Saying, Williams will continue to get better with more reps and games against Big Ten opponents.

DC Ryan Walters talks about the defense and their depth

Later, DC Ryan Walters spoke to the media about what he likes about his defense. Coach Walters is excited about the makeup of his defense and how knowledgeable they are at learning new concepts. Walters also said the Huskies are deep at every position on defense and that he likes what he has to work with. He expects there to be lots of competition within the unit as he prepares the defense for the fall.

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