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Pac 12 Power Rankings Week 3: Can Stanford run the table?

By Michael Valverde

Sep 17, 2016; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) rushes against USC Trojans defensive back Marvell Tell III (7) during the first half of a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2016; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) rushes against USC Trojans defensive back Marvell Tell III (7) during the first half of a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Trojans, 1-2 for the first time since 2001 

The Trojans will not have any chance of making the playoffs now that they have lost their second game of the season. They still have the potential to win the Pac-12 and go to the Rose Bowl, however.

USC was never really a threat to Stanford the whole game. The Cardinals had a 17-3 lead at halftime, and the Trojans scored their first and only touchdown in the third quarter. It just seems as though USC just can’t find their identity.

Two quarterbacks are being rotated in as both Max Browne and Sam Darnold each took a chance at doing some good. Browne was ineffective completing 18 of 28 passes for 191 yards and no touchdowns or interceptions. While Darnold was 5 of 7 for 45 yards but threw an interception.

It seems as though either quarterback can find Ju Ju Smith-Schuster as his spotlight is getting dimmer at the moment. On the season Smith-Schuster only has 11 receptions 99 yards and two touchdowns on the year. USC just won’t win without establishing their star receiver or having consistency at quarterback.

The Trojans have a short week of preparation to get ready for another road game against a smash-mouth team. USC plays at Utah on Friday night.

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