Ranking the Pac 10: Washington State

The season officially begins in 12 days, so today I will start ranking the Pac-10 as well as previewing how the Colorado and Utah seasons should pan out.




10. Washington State
The Cougs are slotted last in my rankings becaues of their inability to win a Pac-10 game (or even threatening to win a Pac-10 game) last year. They would have matched the 0-12 season of Washington 2008 if not for a miraculous come from behind win against SMU fueled by two interceptions returned for touchdowns in the 4th quarter.

Expect the Cougars to be more competitive this year, but don't count on more than 2 wins. The season starts at Oklahoma State on Sept 4th. WSU doesn't have a chance to win this game, but there are positives that they hope to take from the contest. 1) The Cougars NEED to escape this game without any major injuries (mainly to starting QB Jeff Tuel). If the Cougs go down big early, expect Paul Wulff to insert Marshall Lobbestael at QB to preserve the health of Tuel. 2) The offense and defense need to pose a threat to opposing teams. Last year they were unable to sustain an offensive rhythm ranking last in the FBS at 12 ppg. The defense ranked next to last in Points Allowed last year at 38.5 ppg. If Washington State can avoid disaster in Boon Pickens Stadium, they should have the confidence to potentially win 2 straight.

The Cougars will take advantage of and FCS team with Montana State coming to town for their first victory in 11 games. The SMU game in the 3rd week is make or break for WSU. June Jones has a high powered Run and Shoot offense that was in position to beat the Cougars until a 4th quarter collapse a year ago. A loss here for the Cougs could be the end of the road for Paul Wulff's short tenure in Pullman. If Washington State can put together a defensive plan to slow down the Mustangs, they have a chance to win if they can find the end zone 3 times. I expect a loss in Dallas and from there the only question is whether or not Wulff is fired mid-season. Only opportunity for a Pac-10 win appears to be vs Cal on November 6th at home. The temperatures will need to be freezing and Cal will need to be on another 2nd half collapse in their season in order for this upset to happen. In reality, I expect Cal to win by 24+.

Final Prediction: 1-11
Homer (best case in fans minds) Prediction: 3-10

10)Washington State