PAC-12 Preview Part I
Washington Huskies
The Washington Huskies cracked this year top 25 poll at No. 22 in the Nation while projected to finish as No 2 team in the North Division of the PAC-12.
This will be the first full season if all things go as planned for head coach Jimmy Lake the teams former defensive coordinator two seasons ago. During 2020 covid season Lake went 3-1.
With 15 returning starters on offense and defense combined this team is in position to compete for a PAC-12 Championship. Dylan Mooris will be at the helm playing quarterback after starting last season. The redshirt sophomore Morris will help provide a balance attack with running back Richard Newton who will see the football a ton.
The defense with four of its front seven returners back led by tackle Sam Taimani (Jr) and Tuli Letuligasenoa who was hurt last season but was a starter before so they will be strong upfront.
The team biggest standouts will be tight-end Cade Otton at 6’5 and new comer transfer from Oklahoma Brendan Radley-Hiles in the secondary to bring havoc as a ball hawk and extra run stopper.
The Huskies get an early check up facing Michigan in the Big House for their second game of the season.
Prediction 9-3
Washington State Cougars
Who are the new look Cougars led by Nick Rolovich as the new head coach following up his 1-3 covid season restart. Battling in the top heavy Northern division they will need to win first two non conference games to gain momentum.
The offense returns eight starters with six being seniors led by running back Max Borghi. The new run and shoot offense should allow for some open running lanes and quick passes that will help Jayden de Laura if he can keep his starting quarterback spot.
The defense will be building from scratch even with seven returning starters in the new scheme the safety position will be key to keeping them in games with the pass happy PAC-12 teams looking to strike fast. The pair of senior linebackers Jahad Woods and Justin Rogers will provide toughness and leadership on the field.
Big games that can boost their resume will be getting a win against USC in Pullman on September 18. They always play the Trojans tuff at home and having some home cooking in the middle of the season as they face Oregon State, Stanford and BYU.
They Cougars have big test on the road with games at ASU, Oregon and at Washington for the Apple Cup!.
Prediction 4-8
