When the team youve assume the reins of is coming off an historically crappy zero-win season, theres really nowhere to go but up. That said, dont think fans of the traditionally sterling (but awful of late) UW Huskies program will be satisfied with a mere mild improvement from Pete Carroll disciple Steve Sarkisians squad. Starting quarterback/homegrown messiah Jake Locker, who lost most of last season to injury, is an upperclassman nowyouth is no longer an excuse. Too bad, because the Dawgs may need a good one after a stiff home (and season) opener against the perennially awesome Louisiana State University Tigers, a consensus Top 10 pick in preseason polls. For Locker and Coach Sark, this tilt is high-risk/high-reward. Get beat 49-10which could happenand the perceived cultural change in the program will look like little more than window dressing. Come within a touchdown or pull off an upset, however, and the new era will look instantly golden. MIKE SEELY
Sat., Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m., 2009
