PAC-12 Football Power Rankings week ending 9/19
10. Stanford Cardinal (1–1, 0-1 Pac-12)
Last Game: The Cardinal had a bye last week. In their previous game, Stanford lost the conference opener at home to USC 41-28 on 9/11.
The Cardinal scored the game’s final 14 points, but by then, it was too late. Their 441 yards were almost evenly between run (200) and pass.
This Week: Stanford is on the road this week. They take on undefeated Washington at Husky Stadium.
9. Arizona Wildcats (2-1)
Last Game: It was a little tougher for the Wildcats than expected. Visiting North Dakota State gave them all they could handle. Arizona needed a late fourth quarter, 22-yard, touchdown pass from Jayden de Laura to Jacob Cowing to pull out a 31-28 victory over the FCS school.
NDak State is a good team at their level. But they certainly shouldn’t come within five minutes of beating a Pac-12 team that supposedly is making their way back to respectability.
This Week: Has Jedd Fisch turned Arizona in the right direction? Saturday’s game at Cal in Berkeley will be a good measuring stick.
8. California Golden Bears (2–1)
Last Game: It was a tough loss for the Golden Bears in South Bend, Indiana. They had Notre Dame on the ropes several times but couldn’t deliver a knockout. QB Jack Plummer‘s one-yard touchdown plunge put California up 17-14 after three quarters.
The Irish rallied with 10 points in the final period while holding their guests scoreless. But it still came down to the last play. Final score Notre Dame 24 – Cal 17.
This Week: Cal opens their conference schedule at home against Arizona. It’s a game they should win. But nothing is a gimme for the Golden Bears.
That close. 😳
Watch in slow motion as Notre Dame vs. Cal comes down to the final play of the game. pic.twitter.com/22LxTtYeOc
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) September 17, 2022