West Coast college Football Power Rankings: Oregon soars as Boise State and Cal Fall From Grace
Table of Contents
The results from Week Six have brought increased clarity to the landscape of college football out West. with enough games now played to move beyond preseason hype and brand recognition, on-field performance is the sole determinant of success. This shift has led to notable movement in the rankings, welcoming new contenders while ushering out established programs. Here’s a look at the top 10 teams in the West as they head into Week Seven.
1. Oregon (2-0,5-0) â-„â-º
the Oregon ducks are making a statement. The arrival of College gameday in Eugene for their upcoming matchup against No. 7 Indiana underscores the program’s impressive trajectory since joining the Big Ten. As one analyst noted, “This is a game where Dan Lanning truly excels.” A team’s strength is ultimately defined by its most recent performance, and Oregon appears poised to deliver another resounding message.
2. Arizona State (2-0, 4-1) â-„â-º
The Sun Devils are strategically positioned for success. their conference wins against baylor and TCU have gained added significance as both the Bears and Horned frogs secured victories of their own. While Texas Tech currently appears dominant in the Big 12, Arizona State’s potential to challenge for a conference championship berth remains strong. A win against Utah this weekend would be a pivotal step toward that goal.
3. BYU (2-0, 5-0) â-„â-º
Despite a 5-0 record, BYU’s performance is under scrutiny. A 14-point victory over West virginia in Provo, while a win, didn’t meet expectations. “Style points matter,” a source close to the program emphasized, “and failing to deliver hurts the program’s standing.” BYU has yet to cover in either of its Big 12 games, raising concerns about its true level of performance. The Playoff Committee will undoubtedly scrutinize any perceived weaknesses in Big 12 teams, and close results provide ammunition for exclusion.
4. Utah (1-1, 4-1) â-„â-º
It’s a critical juncture for the Utah Utes.Their upcoming game against Arizona State at Rice-Eccles Stadium carries significant weight for the program’s reputation. The Utes rebounded strongly from their loss to Texas Tech with a decisive win over West Virginia, offering a valuable point of comparison to BYU. However, a loss to Arizona State would effectively relegate Utah to a lower tier within the Big 12 hierarchy.
5. Washington (1-1, 4-1) â-²1
The Washington Huskies are gaining momentum. Their come-from-behind road victory against Maryland has stabilized head coach Jedd Fisch’s position and set a positive tone for the remainder of the season. If Washington can replicate their success against the Terps on the road, a favorable outcome against Rutgers in Seattle seems within reach, potentially leading to an eight-win season. However, the team is maintaining a focused, one-game-at-a-time approach.
6. USC (2-1, 4-1) â-¼1
USC faces a crucial test against No. 15 Michigan following a bye week. A loss would likely cap the team’s ceiling at around eight wins, while a victory would keep their Playoff aspirations alive. As the preseason favorite, the expectation for a win is palpable. “Lincoln Riley wasn’t brought in to lose games like this,” one observer stated. The university’s administrative leadership, who championed the move to the Big Ten, anticipate success in these high-stakes matchups.
7. UNLV (1-0, 5-0) â-„â-º
UNLV is earning respect with its strong start. Their recent victory over Wyoming in Laramie, achieved in challenging snowy conditions, was particularly impressive. It marked the Rebels’ first win at Wyoming since 2003 and their first 5-0 start since 1974, solidifying their place among the Top 25 teams. However, the team remains focused on controlling what they can control and avoiding an upset against Air force this week.
8. Arizona (1-1, 4-1) â-²NR
The Arizona Wildcats have regained credibility with a dominant win over Oklahoma State. With two victories over traditional Big 12 opponents, the program is demonstrably progressing. Their defense is currently elite, having not allowed a single passing touchdown all season. This weekend’s matchup against BYU in Tucson represents the biggest game of the season thus far, with a win potentially transforming the program’s trajectory.
9. Fresno State (2-0, 5-1) â-²1
Despite a 5-1 record, Fresno State’s recent performance against Nevada raised concerns. The offense struggled, and the defense couldn’t contain the Wolf Pack’s backup quarterback. however, the Bulldogs remain in control of their destiny, and continued success will overshadow concerns about margin of victory. Still, the showing was concerning and raises questions about the team’s ultimate potential.
10. San Diego State (1-0, 4-1) â-²NR
San Diego State is surging under head coach Sean Lewis. Their convincing victory over Colorado State sent a clear message to the Mountain West. The Aztecs’ only loss came on the road against a tough opponent in Pullman. With a challenging schedule ahead, San Diego State is poised to demonstrate its true capabilities.
Dropped Out: Boise State, Cal.
Dane Miller covers College Basketball and College Football and also formula 1 racing as a Senior Writer and Assistant Editor for SuperWest Sports. Latest posts by Dane Miller (see all).
