Pac-12 Power Rankings: Stanford on top, USC peaking at right time?

Nov 7, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Utah Utes place kicker Andy Phillips (39) celebrates his 36-yard field goal in the fourth quarter to put Utah up 34-23 against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

Utah owns the 4th quarter this season. Whether it’s Devontae Booker tiring out the defense, or Utah’s secondary creating too much havoc for a quarterback to handle, Utah shuts their opponents down in the 4th quarter. That’s critical for the Pac-12, playing such a fast paced style of offense, and having an attacking defense all game long.

But they have to be careful with their remaining schedule. They draw Arizona this week, and the Wildcats are coming off a very encouraging performance. Combine that, with the fact that Rich Rodriguez has defeated Utah each of the last three years, and Utah could be in trouble.

Still, there seems to be a noticeable gap between Utah and Stanford, and Utah and Washington State, so here they are, sitting at No. 2. But they need be cautious, they’re fighting off these teams week in and week out, but it only takes one loss for USC to take the reigns of the Pac-12 South.

Next: Stanford