PAC-12 Football Power Rankings – Week Ending 11/8
5. #23 Washington Huskies (7-2, 4-2)
Last Game: Washington 24 – Oregon State 21
The Washington Huskies never led in this game until Peyton Henry nailed a 22-yard field goal with eight seconds remaining in regulation. Up to that point, UW was playing catch-up from the first possession of the game.
As they did for most of the game, OSU effectively ran the ball down the field. Deshawn Fenwick took it in from the three for the first of his two rushing touchdowns.
Late in the second quarter, Washington quarterback Michael Penix threw a pick-six to put OSU up 14-7 to end the half. But he would rally.
Despite the deficit, Penix was cool under pressure. He led the Huskies to scores on 3 of 5 second half drives. Penix also completed 11 of 18 third down passes.
While the Washington Huskies’ defense gave up 175 rushing yards, with their full secondary back in action, they yielded only 87 passing yards.
This Week: at Oregon, 4:00 PM – FOX
Oregon presents a huge test for the Washington Huskies. Since Game 2 of the season, opposing defenses have tried to defend Ducks quarterback Bo Nix, with little to no success.
At least the Huskies have their secondary back which should help in the passing game. But Nix is just as dangerous as a runner. Between him and UO’s running backs, the Ducks can pick up yards in big chunks.
Washington Defensive Coordinator Chuck Morrell has his work cut out for him. UW is likely to load the box and try to force Nix into bad throws.
Oregon has a good defense, but Washington’s offense is one of the most productive in not only the Pac-12 but also the FBS. The Huskies will score points. Will they score enough of them to win? Maybe.
4. #13 Utah Utes (7-2, 5-1)
Last Game: Utah 45 – Arizona 20
Another dominating victory by Utah. They controlled both lines of scrimmage to both rack up points and keep Arizona quarterback Jayden de Laura in check.
This game also marked the return of Utes quarterback Cameron Rising.
This Week: vs. Stanford 7:00 PM – ESPN
Utah can still defend its Pac-12 Conference title, but they need to run the table. Their stout defense will dominate Stanford.