Every year has been the same thing in college football. “This is the year someone breaks the SEC’s reign of terror.” Last year may have been the Pac-12’s best chance to end the reign with an overwhelmingly talented USC team. However, the Trojans fell flat on their face. Stanford had a chance, but lost their opportunity on a fourth and goal in overtime against Notre Dame, then went on to ruin Oregon’s chances on a last second field goal.
This year, though the three previously mentioned teams may have slightly weaker teams, but they have very similar odds. Though USC may be a longshot, compared to Stanford and Oregon, they still have a chance. There also may be a changing of the guard in the Pac-12. Is this the year that Washington and UCLA emerge as favorites? The Bruins broke out last season, ending up in the Pac-12 Championship game.
The only way one of these teams will stand a chance against the SEC is if they are able to go through the gauntlet that is the Pac-12, and come out unscathed. Will it happen? It’s unlikely. The conference is fairly deep and teams are very prone to slip up. However, is it possible that one of these teams emerge at the end of the season without a loss? The best answer is: This is college football. Anything can happen on any given Saturday.
Editor's Note: Today, we start with the north division. Stay tuned for the south division preview tomorrow.
California Golden Bears
Record: 3-9 (2-7 in Pac-12)
Head Coach: Sonny Dykes, 1st season (22-15 overall)
Returning Starters: Offense- 3; Defense- 6
Schedule
vs. Northwestern (Aug. 31)
vs. Portland State (Sept. 7)
vs. Ohio State (Sept. 14)
@ Oregon (Sept. 28)
vs. Washington State (Oct. 5)
@ UCLA (Oct. 12)
vs. Oregon State (Oct. 19)
@ Washington (Oct. 26)
vs. Arizona (Nov. 2)
vs. USC (Nov. 9)
@ Colorado (Nov. 16)
@ Stanford (Nov. 23)
Offensive Preview
The Golden Bears head into 2013 without their top playmaker, Keenan Allen. They also head into 2013 without Zach Maynard, so a new era is beginning under new Coach, Sonny Dykes. The problem is, the three QB’s competing for the job have zero experience. Jared Goff is a true Freshman, Zach Kline is a Redshirt Freshman, and Austin Hinder is a junior. This summer is likely going to decide who gets the nod. While QB is key, most of the offense will be run through Junior Running Back, Brendan Bigelow, who will be looking to continue the strong tradition of Golden Bear backs (Lynch, Forsett, Vereen, etc.)
Defensive Preview
The focal point of the Cal defense is Deandre Coleman. A mammoth of a human being at Nose Tackle (6-5, 320), Coleman eats space and creates havoc for opposing offensive linemen. However, there is some instability on the D-line, as Keni Kaufusi has left the program, and Chris McCain has been suspended indefinitely.
The secondary is also volatile, since the Golden Bears lost players like Stevie Williams and Marc Anthony to the NFL. All of the projected starters are new and young, so they will likely be tested early and often.
Key Games:
1. Stanford- This rivalry is extremely intense and wouldn’t expect anything different this season.
2. Ohio State- This game will determine how the rest of Cal’s season will go. If they contend with OSU/win, they have the potential to be a force in the Pac-12. However, if they lose horribly, it could be a long season for Dykes and co.
Top Newcomer: Jared Goff, Quarterback: Goff was a highly touted recruit this past season and chose to sign with Cal. With Zach Maynard no longer in Berkeley, there is a big competition to see who will be the Golden Bears' starting QB next season. Though Goff is only a true Freshman, he enrolled early at Cal to participate in Spring Practices. Don’t be surprised if Goff ends up starting at some point during the 2013 campaign.
Season Prediction: 3-9, not bowl eligible
Oregon Ducks
Record: 12-1 (8-1 in Pac-12)
Head Coach: Mark Helfrich, 1st season as a Head Coach
Returning Starters: Offense- 8; Defense- 7
Schedule
vs. Nicholls State (Aug. 31)
@ Virginia (Sept. 7)
vs. Tennessee (Sept. 14)
vs. California (Sept. 28)
@ Colorado (Oct. 5)
@ Washington (Oct. 12)
vs. Washington State (Oct. 19)
vs. UCLA (Oct. 26)
@ Stanford (Nov. 7)
vs. Utah (Nov. 16)
@ Arizona (Nov. 23)
vs. Oregon State (Nov. 29)
Offensive Preview
It will be interesting to see how the Duck offense changes with Chip Kelly no longer in Eugene, however, with Mark Helfrich, the offensive coordinator prior to Kelly leaving, at the helm, it is safe to assume it will be business as usual. The Ducks return star quarterback, Marcus Mariota, and dynamic running back/slot receiver, DeAnthony Thomas. On top of that, wide receiver, Josh Huff, and tight end, Colt Lyerla, make this offense significantly more dangerous. With all of these weapons, Oregon will continue to run their high-flying, fast paced offense and dominate opposing defenses.
Defensive Preview
The impact players the Ducks lost from last season were primarily on the defensive side. Dion Jordan (First Round) and Kiko Alonso (Second Round) have moved onto the NFL, but Oregon has the athletes and the talent to pick up the slack. Junior Washington (6-3, 244) will likely fill in Jordan’s spot on the defense. Alonso’s replacement is still up in the air and will likely be determined later in summer. The star of this Duck defense though, is in the secondary. Ifo Ekpre-Olomu has shown potential to be a shutdown corner. He is extremely physical and has great speed to run with receivers. He takes a few more penalties than he should, but he is extremely disruptive as a whole in the passing game.
Key Games
1. Washington- The game will be at Washington, one of the toughest atmospheres to play in. It will be a high-scoring affair, and likely a race to see who can score 50 points first.
2. Stanford- In Palo Alto. Will Oregon be able to get their revenge on Stanford for ruining their perfect season and chance at the National Title last season?
3. UCLA- The Bruins fought their way into the Pac-12 Championship, and will not sneak up on anyone this year. This is a possible “upset alert” game for the Ducks.
4. Oregon State- Simply put: The Civil War.
Top Newcomer: Thomas Tyner, Running Back: With Kenjon Barner off to the NFL, De’Anthony Thomas and Byron Marshall are the main backs in Eugene. However, the Oregon offense relies on a stable of backs, so Tyner should see some early opportunities. With more traditional size (6-0, 205), than most of the stereotypical Oregon backs, Tyner could look to take on a full workload early in his career.
Season Prediction: 11-1, BCS Bowl eligible
Oregon State Beavers
Record: 9-4 (6-3 in Pac-12)
Head Coach: Mike Riley 13th season (87-67 at OSU and in career)
Returning Starters: Offense- 8; Defense- 7
Schedule
vs. Eastern Washington (Aug. 31)
vs. Hawaii (Sept. 7)
@ Utah (Sept. 14)
@ San Diego State (Sept. 21)
vs. Colorado (Sept. 28)
@Washington State (Oct. 12)
@ California (Oct. 19)
vs. Stanford (Oct. 26)
vs. USC (Nov. 1)
@ Arizona State (Nov. 16)
vs. Washington (Nov. 23)
@ Oregon (Nov. 29)
Offensive Preview
It is tough to know if the Beavers have two starting quarterbacks, or if they have none. Both Cody Vaz and Sean Mannion played well last year at times, and played poorly. This competition will be one of the most exciting to follow throughout the summer. Look for this offense to run through sophomore running back, Storm Woods. After nearly eclipsing 1,000 yards in his freshman season, Woods has the potential for a huge season. The passing game, once the quarterback situation is figured out, looks to be exciting, with deep threat Brandin Cooks returning. The question among the receivers is who will replace Markus Wheaton? Cooks is primarily a deep threat, instead of that all-around receiver that Wheaton was. The Beavers will look to Kevin Cummings to be that reliable target.
Defensive Preview
This Beaver defense will be driven by the defensive line, led by defensive ends, Scott Crichton and Dylan Wynn. Other than Jordan Poyer, last year’s shutdown cornerback, the secondary remains in tact, as does most of the linebacking corps. The biggest question is who will replace Poyer.
Key Games
1. Oregon- The Civil War is one of the biggest rivalries in College Football.
2. Stanford- Could be the first true test the Beavers face all season. Don’t be surprised if this matchup is a “battle of the unbeatens.”
Top Newcomer: Dashon Hunt/Steven Nelson, Cornerback
Jordan Poyer is now with the Philadelphia Eagles, so who takes his place? The Beavers corralled in two highly sought-after cornerbacks. Hunt is a true freshman and Nelson is a JUCO transfer. Both are very talented, and either one could be starting next season across from Rashaad Reynolds.
Season Prediction: 8-4, bowl eligible
Stanford Cardinal
Record: 12-2 (8-1 in Pac-12)
Head Coach: David Shaw, 3rd season (23-4 at Stanford and overall)
Returning Starters: Offense- 5; Defense- 8
Schedule
vs. San Jose State (Sept. 7)
@ Army (Sept. 14)
vs. Arizona State (Sept. 21)
vs. Washington State (Sept. 28)*
vs. Washington (Oct. 5)
@ Utah (Oct. 12)
vs. UCLA (Oct. 19)
@ Oregon State (Oct. 26)
vs. Oregon (Nov. 7)
@ USC (Nov. 16)
vs. California (Nov. 23)
vs. Notre Dame (Nov. 30)
Offensive Preview
It’s safe to say that the first year of the post-Andrew Luck era was successful. Stanford finished 12-2 and a lot of that is because of the emergence of quarterback Kevin Hogen. This season, Hogen looks to take the next step in his development and establish himself as a top quarterback. However, this season, he will have to do so without Stepfan Taylor and his tight ends, Zach Ertz and Levine Toilolo. Luckily, the majority of his offensive line is returning, primarily stud left guard/tackle, David Yankey. Yankey and co. will look to keep Hogen upright to throw to all of his new targets.
Defensive Preview
Almost all of the key pieces to Stanford’s dominant defense return this season, including rush linebacker, Trent Murphy, inside linebacker, Shayne Skov, and safety, Ed Reynolds. The only key player not returning is Chase Thomas, currently with the New Orleans Saints. The projected starting corners, Alex Carter and Wayne Lyons, are young, but talented. This Cardinal defense is poised to be one of the best in college football this season.
Key Games
1. Oregon- Similar to last year, this game will determine who represents the North division in the Pac-12 Championship game.
2. Oregon State- Mentioned earlier that Oregon State could be heading into this matchup undefeated. Will Stanford get overconfident for this matchup?
3. Notre Dame- Annual Rivalry game that went to OT last season. Will Stanford seek revenge for the heartbreaker in South Bend?
4. Cal- Another rivalry game
Top Newcomer: Plethora of Freshman TE’s
Over the past two seasons, the Cardinal have lost Coby Fleener, Zach Ertz, and Levine Toilolo to the NFL. They need someone to step up at that position to continue to be an impact player in the middle of the field. Luckily, Stanford recruited 3 TE’s: Austin Hooper (a converted DE), Eric Cotton, and Greg Taboada. Don’t be surprised if one, or more, of these guys are making an impact in the Pac-12 this upcoming season.
Season Prediction: 11-1, BCS Eligible
Washington Huskies
Record: 7-6 (5-4 in Pac-12)
Head Coach: Steve Sarkisian, 5th season (26-25 at UW and overall)
Returning Starters: Offense- 9; Defense- 8
Schedule
vs. Boise State (Aug. 31)
vs. Illinois (Sept. 14)* (in Chicago)
vs. Idaho State (Sept. 21)
vs. Arizona (Sept. 28)
@ Stanford (Oct. 5)
vs. Oregon (Oct. 12)
@ Arizona State (Oct. 19)
vs. California (Oct. 26)
vs. Colorado (Nov. 9)
@ UCLA (Nov. 15)
@ Oregon State (Nov. 23)
vs. Washington State (Nov. 29)
Offensive Preview
This is the most potent offense Washington has had in a long time. Keith Price will be looking to rebound from his struggles in 2012, and he will have a lot of help. running back Bishop Sankey, wide receiver Kasen Williams, and tight end Austin Seferan-Jenkins will help lead the way as Washington looks to take steps forward in being one of the dominant teams in the Pac-12.
Defensive Preview
The Husky defense will be led by sophomore linebacker, Shaq Thompson. A former safety, Thompson has great range and hits hard. He will be the heart and soul of the front seven. The secondary has some questions, however. Replacing 2013 first-round draft pick, Desmond Trufant will be the biggest concern for Washington this upcoming season. The secondary will rely on returning starters, Marcus Peters and Sean Parker, to help guide the new starters, as the Huskies look to develop into a formidable defense.
Key Games
1. Stanford- This game could set the table for the rest of UW’s season. It will be an early test of whether the Huskies are contenders or pretenders in the Pac-12.
2. Washington State- “The Apple Cup”
Top Newcomer: Damore’ea Stringfellow, Wide Receiver
Keith Price has a few weapons to work with, in Bishop Sankey, Kasen Williams and Austin Sefarin-Jenkins. However, it would not hurt to have one more skill player emerge, and Washington hopes that player can be Stringfellow.
Season Prediction: 8-4, bowl eligible
Washington State Cougars
Record: 3-9 (1-8 in Pac-12)
Head Coach: Mike Leach 2nd season (3-9, 87-52 overall)
Returning Starters: Offense- 7; Defense- 9
Schedule
@ Auburn (Aug. 31)
@ USC (Sept. 7)
vs. Southern Utah (Sept. 14)
vs. Idaho (Sept. 21)
vs. Stanford (Sept. 28)*
@ California (Oct. 5)
vs. Oregon State (Oct. 12)
@ Oregon (Oct. 19)
vs. Arizona State (Oct. 31)
@ Arizona (Nov. 16)
vs. Utah (Nov. 23)
@ Washington (Nov. 29)
Offensive Preview
It will be exciting to see how year two of the Mike Leach experience unfolds. For now, Connor Halliday is the starting quarterback, but freshman Austin Apodaca is fighting hard to take the spot away. Receiving, as usual for Mike Leach, is extremely deep, filled with receivers who can go over the middle, as well as stretch the field. Leach created an exciting offense at Texas Tech, but it will likely take another year or two before he can take Washington State to that level.
Defensive Preview
The Cougars retain nine of their starters on defense from last season. That consistency and experience will be huge, especially in the Pac-12 with the high-impact offenses of Oregon, UCLA, USC and Washington. Safety Deone Buchanon is the standout of this defensive unit, that will be looking to improve after surrendering over 28 points per game last season.
Key Games
1. Every game against the Top Pac-12 teams- With Mike Leach at the helm, the Cougars have the offensive firepower to ruin any of the top teams’ seasons. Will they be able to upset one of the top teams?
2. Washington- “The Apple Cup.”
Top Newcomer: Vince Mayle, Wide Receiver : Mayle, a former JUCO basketball player is well built to play in a fast-tempo, quick passing offense (6-3, 220). Look for Mayle to be used early in the 2013 season.
Season Prediction: 4-8, not bowl eligible