Pac 12 Football, Week 3: Ranking the 5 best teams

Only two teams recorded losses in the PAC-12 this weekend. Oregon fell to No. 4-ranked Michigan State in a close battle, while Oregon State tried three quarterbacks and fell to Michigan decidedly.

The rest of the conference stepped up and recorded victories.

It was a better performance across the board for the conference in Week 2, but here’s how the top 5 teams in the PAC-12 rank this week.

No. 5 Utah Utes

Utah has proven that their defense, special teams and running game are all solid, but they continue to show weakness in their passing game.

Quarterback Travis Wilson left the game in the second quarter due to a shoulder injury, but backup signal-caller Kendal Thompson did enough to get the win.

However, the Utes still haven’t recorded a passing touchdown in 2015.

No. 4: Arizona Wildcats

The Wildcats led the entire game against Nevada, culminating in a 44-20 victory.

Arizona’s offense totaled 570 yards and despite losing linebacker Scooby Wright last week, their defense looked deep.

No. 3 Oregon Ducks

Oregon put up a great fight in East Lansing against a top-ranked opponent in Michigan State.

Vernon Adams went 22-of-39 and threw for 309 yards, 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions. They have some things to work on, but overall they proved they still belong in the top of the rankings.

No. 2 UCLA Bruins

Star true freshman quarterback Josh Rosen continued to impress, completing 22-of-42 passes for 223 yards. Paul Perkins had 18 carries and 2 touchdowns for 151 yards.

The Bruins defense also looked solid, holding UNLV scoreless until three minutes remained in the game, ultimately giving up only a field goal.

No. 1 USC Trojans

The Trojans outgained Idaho, 737-311 yards, and finished the game 59-9.

Cody Kessler threw for a career-high 410 yards and 3 touchdowns.

While their opponent acted more like a practice squad, the Trojans look strong going into the tougher games on their schedule.

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*Featured Photo (above) credit to USA TODAY Sports

Big 12 Football: standings after week 2
Big 12 Football: standings after week 2