PAC-12 Football Power Rankings – Week Ending 11/8
7. Washington State Cougars (5-4, 2-4)
Last Game: Washington State 52 – Stanford 14
This was by far the Washington State Cougars‘ most complete game of the season. Their offense and defense were on point against Stanford.
The Cougars surprisingly ran for 306 yards on Saturday. That’s almost five times more than their combined total from their last two games. Nakia Watson was Wazzu’s leading rusher, with 166 yards on 16 carries.
Washington State’s defense held the Cardinal to 71 yards rushing on 28 carries. The Cougs’ defensive front was just as physical as their offensive line. They put up a pair of sacks and pressured Stanford’s QBs three more times.
Then there were the five forced fumbles which were key to the Cougs jumping out to a big early lead. That includes Jaden Hicks’ 17-yard scoop-six touchdown in the second quarter.
This Week: vs. Arizona State, 12:30 PM – Pac-12 Networks
Coming off of last week’s dominating win, the Cougs have to be feeling good about themselves. They can’t get too cocky.
Despite ASU’s poor season, the Sun Devils can sneak up on their opponents. Just ask UW and UCLA.
Now that Watson is back, Washington State should get more consistency out of their backfield. They will, however, need to prevail without left tackle Jarrett Kingston, who is out for the season with a lower-body injury.
On the other side of the ball, Wazzu’s defense can make a statement again this week. Hopefully, with a little more success from the pass rush.
6. Oregon State Beavers (6-3, 3-3)
Last Game: Washington 24 – Oregon State 21
OSU had chances to win this game, but they couldn’t move the ball well enough to capitalize.
This Week: vs. California, 6:00 PM – Pac-12 Networks
Now that Oregon State is eliminated from the Pac-12 Championship Game, how will they respond? The Beavers match up well with California and should win this game in front of the home fans.