CFB Conference Championship Games: Early Matchup, Winner Predictions for 2015

Sep 6, 2014; Stanford, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans receiver Nelson Agholor (15) is defended by Stanford Cardinal safety Leon McQuay III (22) at Stanford Stadium. USC defeated Stanford 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

PAC-12

Predicted Matchup: Stanford Cardinal vs. USC Trojans
Likely Winner: USC Trojans
Playoff Implication Scale: Very High (Win and In)

The Pac-12 is one of those conferences that could be up for grabs by a number of teams. We’ll give the edge to USC in the South Division simply based on their incredible incoming recruiting class.

The Trojans could be on the brink of another record-breaking season…but on the other hand, they could become a monumental flop. The quarterback play is going to be key for Southern Cal, and they will have to find a way to run the ball.

Over in the North Division, the Oregon Ducks are starting down the barrel of the post-Marcus Mariota era, and that has to be concerning for the supporters in green and yellow. Stanford is back on the upswing and should be able to play good enough defense to upset the reigning Pac-12 champs. Watch 5th year senior running back Remound Wright. He could be the difference in the Cardinals offense.

Next: SEC