We've finally reached the first week of Pac-12 conference football games. Washington State, Utah, and Stanford all have bye weeks, but nine other conference teams have games slated for this Saturday. Colorado plays the only non-conference game of the week as they face the Ohio State Buckeyes in a huge road tilt.
Ready for predictions for the North division contenders? We shall begin after the jump.
Oregon State (0-2) faces UCLA (1-2) at Reser Stadium in Corvallis. The Beavers will not be a factor in the North this year, as it is clearly considered a rebuilding season. UCLA, similarly, will not be vying for the South crown, but this game will be a big morale booster for the winning team. UCLA eeks out a victory, 24-20.
California (3-0) takes a road trip to Seattle, where they face Keith Price and the Washington Huskies (2-1). Both teams have exceeded expectations thus far in 2011, but the hardest part about the North division is having to contend with Oregon and Stanford. The winner of this game positions themselves nicely to be a dark horse, and it's going to be the Huskies. Washington wins, 38-28.
Finally, Oregon (2-1) heads down to Tucson to face the always salty Arizona Wildcats. The 'Cats have struggled this year, losing big to both Oklahoma State and Stanford, but have planned a strong effort for the Ducks. The crowd will be multicolored based on section. American-themed colors aside, the Ducks should be able to win tonight. Oregon takes care of business, 38-17.