Ranking the Pac-10: Week 12

With nearly all conference games in the books, two tiers have developed: Oregon & Stanford and everybody else. Both deserve a BCS bid for their stellar performances.

1. Oregon (10-0, 7-0)Last Week: 1

At this point, Oregon looks like they are going to win the national title. Their defense can shut down opponents in the second half when they need to, and the offense is just too powerful with their superior conditioning.

2. Stanford (10-1, 7-1)Last Week:  2

Andrew Luck turned in a masterful performance against the Cal Bears as the Cardinal won their first game in Berkeley since 2000. How long will the good times last? Harbaugh and Luck are likely gone after this season.

3. Arizona (7-3, 4-3)Last Week:  4

The Wildcats have lost two in a row and draw Oregon this weekend. Nick Foles and company haven’t fared well against good defenses, so it could be a long weekend for Arizona this weekend.

4. Oregon State (5-5, 4-3)Last Week:  10

The Beavers were caught looking ahead to USC by Washington State. This weekend, Oregon State made up for their embarrassing loss by dismantling the Trojans. Ryan Katz played pitch and catch with his receivers and Stephen Paea dominated from his defensive line position.

5. USC (7-4, 4-4)Last Week:  3

The Trojans failed to show up in Corvallis. Matt Barkley’s high ankle sprain is an issue and Mitch Mustain may have to finish the season.

6. Cal (5-6, 3-5)Last Week:  5

Jeff Tedford won’t get fired because the school would have to pay him the full $10 million. However, the Bears can’t play on the road and Stanford just picked them apart. Cal’s inconsistency is astounding and it points to mental issues.

7. Arizona State (4-6, 2-5)Last Week:  6

The Sun Devils play everyone tightly, but never are able to seal the deal. However, Arizona State is a young team that is on the rise heading into the future. Will they get in the way of UCLA’s bowl eligibility?

8. Washington (4-6, 3-4)Last Week:  8

Jake Locker needs two wins in the final two games to make his team bowl eligible, which is why he came back for his senior season. The senior hasn’t played particularly well, throwing 14 touchdowns to his 7 interceptions. The Huskies defense hasn’t lived up to expectations, but Steve Sarkisian has done a nice job recruiting for next year to bring in quality players.

9. UCLA (4-6, 2-5)Last Week:  7

The Bruins offense struggled mightily against Washington. Now, UCLA must beat Arizona State and USC to become bowl eligible. After this season, Neuheisel needs to re-evaluate his offensive philosophy.

10. Washington State (2-9, 1-7)Last Week:  9

The Cougars had their day in the sun at 9, but they are the worst team in the Pac-10. They are much more competitive as evidence by their win at Oregon State, but they are still a ways away from not being a cellar dweller.