Pac-10 Week 8 Preview

We have passed the halfway point in the Season and the conference standings are beginning to shape up. Bowl projections are starting to make sense and teams are deciding whether to focus on the future or on the present. While most weeks have been full of drama and excitement, this week seems to be pretty straightforward.

11 Oregon @ Washington: This game has added excitement because it is a rivalry game. The Ducks will be excited for the return of Jeremiah Masoli who missed last game with a knee injury. Washington will be excited to return home after a crushing last second loss against ASU last weekend. While Washington has shown promise throughout the season, the Ducks should win this game. Oregon has to make sure that they are not looking ahead to their showdown with USC next week, but if they are able to focus on this week they will be able to get the win in Seattle. This game will be televised on ABC. Oregon is also expected to wear black helmets, white jerseys, and black pants.

Washington State @ Cal: It was a pleasant sight last week to see Jahvid Best and the Cal offense get back on track. Washington State continues to struggle and there is no way they will win this weekend. The Bears will be returning home and should have no problems with the visiting Cougars. The only question in this game is how many yards and touchdowns Best will have.

UCLA @ 22 Arizona: If only UCLA had a quarterback… The Bruins have a solid defense that will keep them in the game, but ultimately their lack of experience at the quarterback position will cost them. Arizona plays its best later in the season. The Wildcats play well at home and I expect them to beat the Bruins.

Oregon State @ 7 USC: The Trojans are coming off an exciting win against Notre Dame, but don’t expect them to experience a letdown similar to the one they had after beating Ohio State. The Trojans should have learned from their mistakes and will focus against the visiting Beavers. Matt Barkley will lead his team to victory and the Trojans will begin looking forward to next’s week’s matchup with the Ducks.

ASU @ Stanford: Stanford has a two game losing streak and the Sun Devils are coming off a thrilling home victory. Despite the great rushing of Toby Gerhart, the Cardinal losing streak will extend to three. ASU’s defense is solid and the offense is beginning to come together. As long as Danny Sullivan plays within himself and limits the mistakes, the Sun Devil defense is talented enough to win the game. Stanford is in a tailspin and looking for an identity. Everyone knows that they can run the ball, but can they do anything else? Look for ASU to get the win, despite being on the road.