Washington Rallies to Keep California Streak Alive

Washington took advantage of three turnovers and a blocked punt to score 23 points in the final quarter as the No. 9-ranked Huskies beat California, 36-24, in Seattle on Saturday.

It was Washington’s 18th consecutive victory over Cal, the longest streak in the Pac-10. The Golden Bears have not beaten the Huskies since Nov. 6, 1976, when they won 7-0 in Seattle. Washington won with two touchdowns in the fourth quarter in Berkeley last season.

Washington, 6-1 overall and 3-1 in the Pac-10, trailed 24-13 going into the final quarter. Cal (2-5, 1-3) then self-destructed, losing two fumbles and having a pass intercepted and punt blocked.

Washington took the lead at 29-24 on Rich Alexis’ 16-yard touchdown run with 6:24 left. That came two plays after Golden Bear tailback Joe Igber fumbled after a hit by tackle Larry Tripplett and safety Hakim Akbar recovered on the Cal 17.

The Huskies got an insurance touchdown with 4:34 to go when Marques Tuiasosopo passed to Todd Elstrom in the end zone, a seven-yard play. Owen Biddle set up the score when he blocked Nick Harris’ punt and recovered the ball on the nine.

Arizona State 23, Washington State 20--Mike Barth kicked a 41-yard field goal in overtime for the Sun Devils (5-2, 2-2) at Pullman Wash. Barth’s winning kick came after the snap was fumbled on a 35-yard attempt on third down, but recovered by Arizona.

Washington State (3-4, 1-3) had the first possession in overtime, but Adam Archuleta intercepted Jason Gesser’s pass on the goal line. The Cougars lost to Arizona in the third overtime last week.