It has been a difficult season for the Washington football team, Hawai'i's opponent tonight.

This is the Huskies' third losing season under third-year coach Ty Willingham.

The Huskies, whose schedule has been rated the nation's toughest by computer geeks, suffered close losses to Southern California, Arizona State and Oregon. In those three games, the Huskies fizzled after the halftime show.

The Huskies led ASU, 17-13, at the half, then was out-scored 31-3 in the final two quarters.

They were tied at 31 against Oregon after three quarters, but ended up losing, 55-34.

Still, the Warriors are hardly confident.

First, the Huskies have stared down some of the nation's best.

"They're going to be ready for us," UH quarterback Colt Brennan said. "It's not going to be easy."

And the Huskies have one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the West.

Jake Locker "is a phenomenal athlete," UH defensive secondary coach Rich Miano said. "His running speed, quickness, and his ability to make people miss, those are the reasons he's a great quarterback."

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.