Pac-10
USC
http://www.usctrojans.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/usc-m-footbl-mtt.html
Despite going with an untested quarterback (incoming freshman Matt Barkley) taking over the reigns from Mark Sanchez (now starting for the New York Jets) , new offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates will also play youthful running backs with emerging sophomore Curtis McNeal and redshirt freshman Curtis McNeal on a squad with twelve returning starters. Should Barkley falter, an even younger player will step in, redshirt sophomore Aaron Corp.
On defense safety Taylor Mays is an all-round bone crusher and despite losing 4 linebackers to the NFL, the defense have three experienced juniors to step right in.
The Trojans will be tested early when they roll into Buckeye country playing Ohio State September 12th, but Pete Carroll should still have enough talent to take the Pac-10 and even vie for the BCS once again.
Oregon
http://www.goducks.com/SportSelect.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=500&KEY=&SPID=233&SPSID=3383
Though the news is that highly touted defensive back Cliff Harris just joined the squad bringing skills that made him a dominant high school baller, the strength of the Ducks is the offensive line that includes tight end Ed Dickson and quarterback Jeremiah Massoli’s ability in taking advantage of the greater time they give him.
The key game comes on Halloween when Oregon hosts USC.
Oregon State
http://www.osubeavers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/orst-m-footbl-mtt.html
Whereas the Ducks go big on offensive, the Beavers go fast. More than enough firepower is provided by elusive runner Jacquizz Rodgers who became the first freshman to be named pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year.
But if Oregon State is to make their first Rose Bowl in 44 years, defense will have to provide stopping power. They have the tools, after giving up nearly 700 yards in a home loss to the Ducks last year that cost them a trip to Pasadena on New Years Day, Oregon State did grind Pittsburgh into the ground with a 3-0 win in the Sun Bowl. Still Beaver hopes for a run at the roses will be via the swift feet of The Quizz.
