David BrodyUSC-Oregon
The winner of this game is going to take big strides towards winning the Pac-10. USC looks to overcome the countless injuries suffered so far this season and keep themselves on track after a confident win against Notre Dame last week. A loss to Stanford a few weeks ago and a close win over Arizona has people doubting them and this game will make a big statement. Oregon on the other hand, has looked sharp all season (especially on offense) and their only loss came 3 weeks ago to a 21st ranked Cal team. This game is going to come down to the quarterbacks. Has Mark Sanchez come into his own after his Notre Dame game or was this a fluke created by a poor opponent? Can Dennis Dixon lead his team to another big victory like he did in Michigan? I think the answer to the former is yes. Expect Oregon to put up big numbers and for USC to struggle to keep up.
Florida-Georgia
Despite their two losses, Florida still has a shot at the SEC championship game. Tim Tebow still has the talent to lead this young Florida team there and will look to keep their hopes alive against an underperforming UGA. Georgia’s Matt Stafford has been unable make significant progress since his freshman year, mostly due to the tough defenses he faces routinely in the SEC. In the end, Georgia isn’t going to be able to slow Florida down, leading to a somewhat lopsided victory and another step towards the BCS for Florida.
Cal-Arizona State
Arizona State has started the season in a way fans never could have believed. Going undefeated this late in the season is just another one of those weird surprises this season has created. Something often ignored is that they have yet to face competition, which could really challenge them. When you play seven unranked teams in a row, going undefeated is not terribly difficult. While Ohio State may very well have the goods to back it up, I don’t think this Arizona State team does. With Cal, USC, and Oregon up ahead, expect to see some losses, starting this weekend. Cal may have had a few weeks but their offensive weapons are going to look for someone to take their frustration out on and Arizona State is going to be on the receiving end.