FAVORITE TEAMS

The theme of the Pac-12 is transfers. No we’re not talking about F-USC (and Riley again) and UCLA moving to the Big Ten in 2024. We’re talking about the players from the transfer portal led by former OU quarterback Caleb Williams, former Auburn quarterback Bo Nix, former Incarnate Word quarterback Cameron Ward, and former Wazzu QB Jayden de Laura. A lot of teams in that conference are either adding, changing or re-shaping their program through the portal, and it’ll make for an interesting season for both divisions. East coasters, sacrifice some sleep to watch these games, please!!!

Does USC’s major upgrades make them the favorite of the Pac-12 South?

The Pac-12 South gets a big boost from…USC’s new head coach Lincoln Riley, quarterback Caleb Williams, and more coming from OU (and I’m still salty as an OU fan). They are in line to win the division, but it doesn’t mean they are favored. There’s a lot of meshing that must happen and there are also concerns on the line for offense and defense. Bad line play usually doesn’t go well for most teams.

Utah took the conference with ease. Can they do it again?

Utah continues their foundation under coach Kyle Whittingham. Even with key pieces lost to the NFL, they continue adding on, including Devin Kaufusi from rival BYU. Having quarterback Cam Rising as their guy really made a difference for the team. Their first game is at Florida and it’s their biggest test. If they win in Gainesville, beware of the Utes for a playoff run.

Who has the cajones to challenge the Utes?

The potential contender next to USC is their neighbor, UCLA. Head coach Chip Kelly and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson are back for the fourth year together. They look to continue their momentum and hope to steal the division title. There are some new guys or backups that may need to jell quick if they want that chance.

The state of Oregon may have a say in who wins the conference, but Oregon State were able to defeat the Utes while Oregon suffered back-to-back losses after allowing 38 points twice and scoring a total of 17 in those matchups. Between the two, Oregon State gains momentum and has an easier road than Oregon. Both could be neck-and-neck for the division title before the rivals collide in the last game of the season. If Bo Nix can get things rolling with the offense, then Oregon could redeem themselves against Utah in November.

Where’s the rest of the Pac?

Colorado may be at the bottom for a bit after some transfer departures, but defense figures to be the strength of the team.

Arizona State is dealing with recruiting investigations by Herm Edwards, but key players that entered the transfer portal pretty much left the Sun Devils stranded in the desert.

Arizona could quietly improve in coach Jeff Fisch’s second season. His underrated recruiting and key transfers in quarterback Jayden de Laura and former UTEP receiver Jacob Cowing could lead to more wins with an upset or two.

Washington’s offense must bounce back if they want the title, but their defense will still be dangerous and help keep this team in winning situations.

Washington State brings in Incarnate Word quarterback Cameron Ward to fill the void, but how this team will fair solely depends on the offensive line.

Stanford could be the dark horse for the North title, but can the offensive line protect Tanner McKee and open lanes for EJ Smith (Emmitt’s son)? Defense will also be a factor with a new front four.

Cal likely finishes at the bottom. They’ll still have a strong defense, but their offense has yet to be anything remotely competitive.

Do we see a Pac-12 team finally return to the College Football Playoff?

There’s potential, but the conference has a daunting task on their non-conference schedule. Three teams battle the SEC, six teams battle a competitive Mountain West, two have Big 12 opponents, three have Notre Dame, three have Big Ten opponents, and two have BYU. Utah has the best shot with their defense and quarterback. The other team could be Oregon. Imagine Bo Nix finally taking down the giant that is Georgia after a bad run against them as an Auburn quarterback. Of course, the majority are looking at USC, but it takes the front lines on both sides to go the distance. Most are unaware, but UCLA could be in contention too. They have the easiest non-conference schedule of the conference and host Utah and USC, while only traveling to Oregon. I want to include Oregon State, but it’s a mystery. They have a challenging non-conference schedule against Fresno State and Boise State. Then they follow up with back-to-back games against USC and Utah. If they overcome that early start, the Beavers could bring the wood to the playoff committee.