Here are my week two Pac-12 power rankings.
1. #11 Utah (2-0)
The Utes handled business at home in a 35-17 home win over Northern Illinois. Utah’s offense had a solid day against a good defense – gaining 407 yards and scoring 35 points.
Next opponent: vs. Idaho State
2. #15 Oregon (1-1)
It’s safe to say Oregon is over their heartbreaking loss to Auburn after dismantling Nevada, 77-6. The Ducks are right there with Utah for the conference’s best team.
Next opponent: vs. Montana
3. #20 Washington State (2-0)
Anthony Gordon passes for 464 yards and four touchdowns in Washington’s State’s 59-17 win over Northern Colorado. The Cougars haven’t been tested yet but have looked good so far.
Next opponent: at Houston
4. #24 USC (2-0)
The Trojans might have found their quarterback last Saturday night. Freshman Kedon Slovis lit up the Cardinal – passing for 377 yards and three touchdowns in USC’s blowout win over Stanford. USC could be the surprise of the conference if Slovis continues to thrive in the new “Air Raid” Trojans offense.
5. #23 Washington (1-1)
Two turnovers, dropped passes, bad tackling, and poor red zone offense resulted in their stunning 20-19 defeat to California. Huskies have a lot to improve on if they want to repeat as Pac-12 Champs.
Next opponent: vs. Hawaii
6. California (2-0)
The Golden Bears upset #14 ranked Washington in Seattle after a near three hour weather day. California’s defense shined and they showed promise on offense.
Next opponent: vs. North Texas
7. Colorado (2-0)
The Buffaloes won a thriller in overtime over #25 Nebraska. Colorado was down 17-0 at halftime but scored 31 second half points to send the game to overtime – ultimately prevailing 34-31 in OT.
Next opponent: Air Force
8. Stanford (1-1)
The Cardinal jumped out to a 17-3 before getting outscored 42-3 in the final 43 minutes of play. Stanford was without starting QB K.J. Costello and All-American left tackle Walker Little.
Next opponent: at #17 UCF
9. Arizona State (2-0)
The Sun Devils offense struggled in a 19-7 win over Sacramento State. ASU rushed for 91 yards and their offensive line remains a major concern. Big test coming this week.
Next Opponent: at #18 Michigan State
10. Arizona (1-1)
Arizona scored 51 points in the first half against Northern Arizona. In the end, the Wildcats won, 65-41. Still a ton of question marks for the Wildcats’ defense.
Next opponent: vs. Texas Tech
11. UCLA (0-2)
The Bruins offense struggled again in their 23-14 loss to San Diego State. UCLA was held to just 261 total yards in the loss. Not the way Chip Kelly envisioned year No. 2 at UCLA starting out.
Next opponent: vs. #5 Oklahoma
12. Oregon State (0-2)
Oregon State was shutout against Hawaii in the second half after scoring 28 points in the first half. The Beavers fell just short, losing 31-28 on a 28-yard FG with 2:17 remaining.
Next opponent: vs. Cal Poly
