Washington Embraces Communications, Connections and Competition

Latravis Washington is someone who's all about the three C's . . . communications, connections and competition.

First, the 6-3 junior quarterback is a communications studies major. He's so outgoing that "I can talk to anybody," he said. "I can talk to the president of the United States without getting nervous at all."

Secondly, he has connections. His cousin is former Husker defensive back and first-round NFL draft pick Fabian Washington, now with the Baltimore Ravens. It made perfect sense for one Washington to steer the other one to Lincoln, where both feel like part of a family.

Thirdly, Latravis always has embraced competition, and he says he'll keep fighting hard to stay in the quarterback race to back up Zac Lee, the current starter.

Competition is a byproduct of another Washington connection, former Husker quarterback Tommie Frazier, who's from the same hometown - Bradenton, Fla.

"I've known Tommie since I was a little kid," Washington said. "I've watched him set all kinds of records. He loved to compete, and so do I."

Washington chose Nebraska over Ohio State and West Virginia. He spent his first two years in Lincoln as a reserve linebacker and a special team player on kickoffs.

When the Husker quarterback ranks thinned, Washington was eager to return to the offensive position he played in high school. A former power forward in basketball, he welcomes any and all competition with open arms and a giant smile.

That attitude also spreads to the classroom, where last fall Washington received Second-Team Academic All-Big 12 honors.

Today, he shares his personality with Huskers.com for Quick Hits, our new video series.