Updated

John Ross scored on a reverse and a 91-yard catch and No. 25 Washington held off Hawaii 17-16 on Saturday night despite a weak second half in coach Chris Petersen's Huskies debut.

The Huskies overcame late pushes from Hawaii and offensive problems late in the game, when their best accomplishment was running out the clock.

Jeff Lindquist threw for 162 yards in his first start for Washington after Cyler Miles was suspended for the game. But most of Lindquist's total came on the big play to Ross.

Washington's defense struggled early, spotting Hawaii a 10-0 lead on its first two possessions. The Rainbow Warriors lost the advantage in one quick second-quarter burst, turning the ball over on downs and then allowing the Huskies' second-longest pass play in school history.

Hawaii's Joey Iosefa rushed for 143 yards and a touchdowns.