SEATTLE — In what might be the most stunning piece of coaching news in school history — even more so than Don James’ abrupt resignation amid news of NCAA sanctions just before the 1993 season — Chris Petersen announced Monday he will step down as Washington’s coach after the Huskies’ bowl game.



Defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake, considered among the top assistants in the country, will replace him as coach. Petersen will transition into what the school calls a “leadership advisory role” within the athletic department.



Petersen, Lake and athletic director Jen Cohen are scheduled to speak with the media at a Tuesday news conference. There is no shortage of questions to ask those involved, but these are the ones that come immediately to mind.



Why now?



This is the big one, obviously. Petersen turned 55 in October, seemingly is in good health, signed a contract extension in April 2017 through the 2023 season...