USC vs Stanford
Many people will make this particular game about the battle between quarterbacks Cody Kessler and Kevin Hogan, but really, the most crucial component for both teams is their defense. USC’s defense is filled with star players, namely Leonard Williams and Su’a Cravens, that have proven to be incredibly athletic. Their goal must be to shut down Stanford’s power running game, then force Hogan to throw at USC’s top notch defensive backs. Throwing in bulk is difficult for Hogan and getting him out of his comfort zone will be key.
Reversely, Stanford defense is about smart, assignment football. Due to their philosophy and the way that they recruit, Stanford’s front seven is often devoid of incredible athletes, but they are strong players that control the line and understand their assignments. Having consistently solid line play allows Stanford’s defensive backs, who are also one of the best groups in the conference, to not worry about the opposing quarterback having too much time in the pocket. Although, instead of the focus being on making Kessler uncomfortable, the focus will be to force the Trojans to run the ball. Not that they are incapable, but they are a better team through the air. This game has the potential to be the most exciting game of the year in the PAC 12, and the Trojans have the better shot at coming out on top.
Oregon vs Washington State
It is easy to instantly assume Washington State has no shot in this game, but slow down for a minute. Sure, Oregon has the most electric offense in the nation, but Washington State’s Mike Leach lead offense is not to be disregarded. Leach has made incredible strides with the program in just two years and commanded the offense to over 400 yards per game despite having minimal talent and a first year starter at quarterback (Connor Halliday). Granted, Halliday is talented in his own right, but the program has overachieved and they should not be counted out. Of course, it is more likely than not that Oregon comes out on top, but if they fail to get ahead, which they have a history of, then Washington State certainly has a shot in this high scoring shootout.
UCLA vs Arizona State
Like the stereotypical PAC 12 game, this matchup will feature two strong offenses pitted against each other in a battle of not just scoring ability, but stamina. In short, which team can continue to score as the clock winds down and fatigue sets in? While both certainly have the talent to outscore each other, UCLA has a deeper roster that will be able to keep players fresher. Arizona State’s Jaelen Strong is by far the best receiver in the game, but he is but a single man and the rest of that receiving corps is not four or five guys deep like UCLA’s is. The same goes for running backs. DJ Foster of Arizona State is the best back that will see the field, but UCLA could theoretically trot out three or four different talented runners.
Also, UCLA’s defense is much more talented. Player such as Miles Jack, Deon Hollins, Eddie Vanderdoes, and many others are simply too good at what they do to let Arizona State win the war up front, which is a war that can dictate the rest of the game. Arizona State will certainly put up a nasty fight, but expect UCLA to be victorious.
Stanford vs Washington
Defensively, this clash could be even more entertaining than the USC-Stanford game, which is a wonderful testament to Washington’s defense. Players such as Shaq Thompson, Hau’oli Kikaha, Marcus Peters, and so on, will be a group that can dominate any facet of Stanford’s offense. Now, Stanford’s offense is no joke, but if any group can handle their prowess, it is Washington.
Unfortunately, Washington’s offense is a huge question mark as both the starting quarterback and running back have moved on to the next level. That being said, Kasen Williams, who is arguably the best receiver in the nation, is back from his injury and will be accompanied by Jaydon Mickens, who stepped up his play last season once Williams went down. The problem is that Stanford’s corners Alex Carter and Wayne Lyons are one of the best duos on the nation and will likely be able to contain them because a first year starter is at the helm. Due to the inevitable struggle of Washington’s offense, Stanford will beat them.
Arizona State vs USC
In regards to Arizona State’s chances of beating the “power” teams of the conference, this is the game in which success is most plausible. USC does not quite have the depth that, say, UCLA does. That means that, in theory, Arizona State’s offense should have an easier time keeping up in points, but because of USC’s stellar defense, that may not be the case. Comparatively, USC’s offense is not much better than Arizona State’s, but the defense that the Trojans have clearly outshines that of the Sun Devil’s. It will be a fun watch nonetheless, but expect the Trojans to ultimately take the win.