PAC-12 Football Power Rankings week ending 12/6
6. Stanford Cardinal (2-2)
Last game: Because of restrictions on contact sports in Santa Clara County, California, Stanford had to move their football operations to the Seattle area for a few weeks. They must like it in the Pacific Northwest because they took it to previously undefeated and 22nd ranked Washington in Seattle.
Running back Austin Jones looked like a star, gaining 138 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 31 carries.
This week: It really feels like the Cardinal are turning their season around. First came the win over California in the Big Game two weeks ago on a blocked extra point. Then last Saturday, they upset Washington. A third straight win puts Stanford in line for a bowl appearance.
5. Oregon Ducks (3-2)
Last game: Oregon has no one else to blame but themselves for losing to previously winless Cal last week. The Ducks scored a touchdown in the final minute of the second quarter to take a 17-14 lead into halftime. What should have been a momentum builder was the last time UO put points on the board.
The Ducks offense struggled mightily in the second half, gaining just 117 yards. They had four punts, two fumbles, and a turnover on downs. It spoiled an otherwise good half for Oregon’s defense, which gave up a measly 103 yards.
This week: It’s a big deal this Saturday at Autzen Stadium. The Ducks host Washington, with the winner headed to the Pac-12 Championship game. Expect Oregon to pull out all the stops. Of course, that is if they play. If not, UW wins the Pac-12 North with a 3-1 record.