2008 Pac-10 Football
Let’s take a look at Info Plays 2008 Pac-10 Football Predictions below.
1.) USC Trojans
The talent’s still there, especially on a defense that is again the best in the league. New starting quarterback Mark Sanchez hasn’t yet inspired true confidence and it will be tough for him to fill the shoes left by David-Booty, Leinart and Palmer before him. But Pete Carroll has the “reload rather than rebuild” theme down pat.
Dennis Erickson still has the touch after dropping down to the college level from the pros. There is plenty of talent at the skill spots, where the Devils managed to succeed last year despite a shaky offensive line that could be even worse this year. A year away from serious contention with USC, the Sun Devils figure to be the best of the rest in the Pac-10 if Rudy Carpenter stays upright.
3.) Oregon Ducks
A solid defense and sturdy offensive line give the Ducks a good foundation to work with. Lots of candidates remain at QB, but none are the next Dennis Dixon just yet. No Jonathan Stewart is also a crushing blow in the backfield. If someone can runt he offense passably, the Ducks should be just fine.
4.) California Bears
Cal sports some of the best linebackers and offensive linemen in the Pac-10. But uncertainty at QB, RB and WR is a rarity for a Tedford-coached team. Less star power but more resolve should prevent the Bears from another collapse.
5.) UCLA Bruins
Rich Neuheisel, Norm Chow and DeWayne Walker solidify the coaching staff at UCLA. More personnel issues than usual may make this a slow process to a winning program, starting with an injury-plaqued quarterback. The future seems bright for Neuheisel and his crew, but there could be struggles first.
The Beavers know how to win with 19 victories the past two years. But with just three starters back on defense and Yvenson Bernard gone at running back, a 9-win season will be less than likely. Mike Riley winds ways to surprise, but the Beavers seem to be rebuilding in 2008.
7.) Arizona Wildcats
Willie Tuitama and Mike Thomas lead an explosive Wildcats’ passing attack. They might not be able to throw enough to make up for a very weak defense. Mike Stoops’ job is on the line and the question is whether or not a minor bowl game will be enough. Stay tuned this season to find out.
Jake Locker, a solid ofensive line, Jake Locker, an improving defense and oh yeah, more Jake Locker give the Huskies their best chance to win. But the Huskies have few proven running backs and wide receivers at Locker’s disposal, and a defense that still lacks respectability. Locker offers hope, but this Husky edition might not be able to save head coach Ty Willingham.
Jim Harbaugh injected some life into the Cardinal last year and 10 of top 11 defensive players return. QB remains uncertain and the overall talent on this team needs a lift. There’s enough talent to pull another upset or two, not over USC again, but a bowl berth is still a year away.
Washington State’s defense is sure to be better and WR Brandon Gibson may be the best at his position in the conference. But the Cougars have no proven QB to run the no-huddle offense, and not much depth anywhere. It’s hard to know what to expect from coach Paul Wulff, but a last place finish in the Pac-10 is likely.
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