FAVORITE TEAMS

The Pac-12 self-destructed in 2018, and were out of playoff considerations after Washington State imploded once again to their rival, Washington. Teams like USC, UCLA, Arizona, and Stanford dipped. However, it gave opportunities to Oregon, Utah, Washington State, Arizona State, and Cal to control the conference.

In the Pac-12 North, Oregon is favored, but they have a tough road schedule, including their first game against Auburn in Jerry’s World. Even though Washington replaces alot of experience on defense and welcomes Georgia-transfer quarterback Jacob Eason as the new starter, don’t count out the Huskies. It’s hard for me to be sold on Stanford’s passing game, especially when you have to replace eight starters, including the majority of its receiving production from JJ Arcega Whiteside (63 rec, 1059 yards, 14 TDs). Washington State again starts over with a new quarterback. Cal surprised last season thanks to defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter and this much improved defense, but they’re not fooling no one again if their offense can’t improve their scoring. Oregon State’s offense should be more entertaining and win at least more than two games with quarterback Jake Luton and running back Jermar Jefferson more seasoned.

In a wide-open Pac-12 South, Utah’s favored to win, but road games at USC and Arizona, and an October 19 home game against Arizona State is their divisional obstacle. USC has plenty of talent to bounce back, but are they 100% sold on coach Clay Helton??? Arizona State should contend for the division with plenty of starters returning along with added depth. Arizona looks to bounce back with a healthy quarterback Khalil Tate, but mistakes must be addressed. UCLA may need a year before contending for the South, but don’t be surprised if they potentially upset one or more teams this season. Colorado blew their chances of bowl-eligibility and possibly a South title. Not sure if they have another opportunity at five plus wins due to an overall tough schedule.

OREGON DUCKS

This is the second straight season I choose Oregon as my underrated team, but with higher expectations. With the majority of their roster back, despite Brenden Schooler being out for a few weeks, they could win the Pac-12 and contend for a playoff spot. This offense should be one of the best in the conference and maybe the nation. They return quarterback Justin Herbert, a stacked running back position, talented receivers and all five of their offensive line. Oregon’s defense should be improved and hopefully the addition of true freshmen defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux strengthens them too. For Oregon to be playoff contenders, three things must happen:

• Defeating Auburn
• Overcoming a difficult road schedule
• And keeping Justin Herbert healthy the entire season.

ARIZONA STATE SUN DEVILS

Arizona State exceeded all expectations last season by winning seven games and upsetting Michigan State, USC on the road, and Utah. Not to mention overcoming a 20-point 4th quarter deficit to defeat Arizona. Arizona State returns plenty of starters along with added depth that played a few downs last season. The only question is how true freshmen quarterback Jayden Daniels will perform as the starter and who will be the main receiver to replace N’Keal Harry. That by itself will determine how the Sun Devils perform in coach Herm Edwards’ second year. The schedule looks manageable, but it’s challenging whether they’re at home or on the road. If the start hot early on their schedule, the game against Utah on October 19th could determine who controls the Pac-12 South.