Pac-12 Football: 5 most important non-conference games in 2017

By Jerran Anderson | May 22, 2017

Apr 21, 2017; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Willie Taggart watches players scrimmage during spring practice at the Oregon Ducks outdoor practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 27, 2016; San Diego , CA, USA; Washington State Cougars quarterback Luke Falk (4) throws a ball on the sideline during the second half against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Qualcomm Stadium. Minnesota won 17-12. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Dec 27, 2016; San Diego , CA, USA; Washington State Cougars quarterback Luke Falk (4) throws a ball on the sideline during the second half against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Qualcomm Stadium. Minnesota won 17-12. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Washington State vs. Boise State, Sept. 9

The Washington State Cougars and quarterback Luke Falk look to turn a corner next season. One big key to success is an early season victory over the Boise State Broncos on the road.

Falk and the Cougars came up short against the Broncos last season but with experience on their side they hope to change things.

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They went 7-2 in Pac-12 play a season ago. With renewed confidence in 2017, Washington State hopes the defense can keep pace with the offense this time.

Falk threw for 4,468 passing yards and 38 touchdowns in 2016. He did well to lead the Cougars to victory although they lost their final three games of the season. He’ll have some weapons to replace on offense but still has some experienced receivers to throw to.

The defense, on the other hands, allowed 26.4 points per game, 50th in the FBS. The nine returning starters on the unit will have to tighten things up if they want to challenge for a Pac-12 title this season.

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