Pac-12 Power Rankings: #10 USC survives thriller, Buffs and #19 Bruins win

4. #15 Oregon State (5-1, 2-1): The Beavers got back on track this weekend with a win against California. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei has been the difference maker he was brought to Corvallis to be. Looking at the back half of their schedule, the Beavs could have a say in who makes it to the title game, even if they don’t make it themselves.

3. #7 Washington (5-0, 2-0): The Huskies, Ducks, and Trojans could be 1A, 1B, and 1C in the Pac-12. The Huskies are playing outstanding football this season, and quarterback Michael Penix is playing like a Heisman contender. The Huskies first test is this weekend against #8 Oregon this weekend.

2. #8 Oregon (5-0, 2-0): Speaking of those Oregon Ducks, they might have the defense that puts them over the top in the Pac-12. USC’s defense is leaky, and Washington hasn’t faced a top-end offense yet. That’s what makes this weekend’s game against the Huskies pivotal.

1. #10 USC (6-0, 4-0): Is the defense as leaky as the plumbing in a 110-year-old home? Yes. Has the offense looked sluggish the last couple of weeks? Yes. However, they’ve found a way to win, and that counts for something. Besides, they have the Heisman Trophy winner. That gives them a chance every weekend.