Pac-12 Power Rankings 2017: Week 4 sees a new team climb into the top 3
Finally, a sign of life from the Sun Devils. They lost to Texas Tech 52-45 but the team showed some offensive fire power. Their quarterback Manny Wilkens passed for over 300 yards and three touchdowns. The Arizona State offense looked efficient, explosive, and dangerous. Close your eyes when looking at the stats on their pass defense. Against Texas Tech the defense allowed 543 passing yards and six touchdown passes.
The Sun Devil better shore up the defense if they want to stay close against the Ducks.
Week 4 Opponent: No. 24 Oregon
So remember that thing I said about Stanford for sure finishing the season in the top three of the Pac-12 Power Rankings? Well, yea, that’s out of the question. Technically, the Cardinal could finish 10-2, but the way they are playing makes that impossible. When I watch Stanford play, I am more concerned about the defense. Their reputation is tough, hard-nosed, and aggressive. Their front seven is being pushed around by everyone they play against.
I expect David Shaw to find some solutions for his club this season, but he is not a miracle worker.
Week 4 Opponent: UCLA
What a surprise. Arizona cracked the top 10 of the Pac-12 Power Rankings. I know I shouldn’t give Arizona too much praise for beating UTEP 63-16. But, the Wildcats handled their business. They played a bad team and made them look bad. Brandon Dawkins will be in the Heisman conversation if he can put up Lamar Jackson numbers versus the Utes. Last week be had three passing and rushing touchdowns. I am a little concerned that Dawkins is being overused and will wear down ass the season progresses. I’m not sure if the fans or team cares as long as Arizona makes a bowl game.