Stevens Pass returns to UW attack

Jerramy Stevens wasn't quite as heavy as last week, but he wielded more weight in the outcome.

At 263 pounds, Stevens was 5 pounds lighter than last week at Oregon State. His role was bigger against Washington State, though, as he caught five passes for 41 yards, including a 7-yard touchdown reception.

It was Stevens' second game back since suffering a broken bone in his foot, and his 5-yard catch in the first quarter yesterday was his first reception in almost two months.

"He's not full speed," UW Coach Rick Neuheisel said. "There will be some things on film where he'll say, 'I can't believe I did that.' "

But Neuheisel also said Stevens is a fun option to have. One that makes it easier for everyone in the offense, and his touchdown catch in the fourth quarter was an example.

"Any time they do that, I look for a little quick pop off the line of scrimmage," Stevens said.

UW quarterback Cody Pickett read the play the same way and threw the ball quickly to Stevens, who was totally unguarded.

"There was nothing back there but end zone," Stevens said.

A week ago, Stevens didn't have a reception in his return against Oregon State.

"The guys, they're not used to you being in the huddle," Stevens said. "Just getting your presence back in there, getting back in the flow is the hardest thing."

Yesterday, Stevens was the only Husky besides Reggie Williams to catch more than two passes.

"It's fun to have him back," Neuheisel said. "It would be nice to have him back for a long time."

How long Stevens will be back is a question he isn't ready to address. Stevens said before the season he would likely enter the NFL draft after this season, but yesterday was not ready to reassess that situation, given his injury.

"At this point right now, my plans are just focused on what we're doing this season as far as winning games," he said. "So I really haven't let myself look past that. We're trying to win games, and I'm trying to do everything I can."