Washington linebacker Connor O’Brien (right) attempts to tackle Stanford running back Bryce Love during a game last November. Both Love and the Huskies are facing high expectations this season. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)

Washington linebacker Connor O’Brien (right) attempts to tackle Stanford running back Bryce Love during a game last November. Both Love and the Huskies are facing high expectations this season. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)

2018 Pac-12 football preview

In-depth previews of all 12 teams along with predictions and schedules for the upcoming season

The Pac-12 football season kicks off Aug. 30 when the Utah Utes play host to Weber State.

Here is your guide to the upcoming season.

PREDICTIONS

The Washington Huskies are the favorites to win the Pac-12 North title, while USC gets the nod over Utah in the Pac-12 South.

For the complete predictions, click here.

TEAM PREVIEWS

Arizona: The Wildcats are not tempering expectations in coach Kevin Sumlin’s first season.

Arizona State: Herm Edwards is breathing life into the Sun Devils’ program.

California: The Golden Bears look to take a significant step in year No. 2 under Justin Wilcox.

Colorado: The Buffaloes look to bounce back after a subpar 2017 season.

Oregon: Ducks need to keep QB Justin Herbert healthy.

Oregon State: Former UW assistant takes after a tough year for Beavers.

Stanford: Heisman candidate Bryce Love has lots of help on Stanford’s offense.

UCLA: Chip Kelly’s Bruins aim for quick success by going fast.

USC: Trojans’ deep roster ready to rally around new quarterback.

Utah: Utes poised to make a move in the Pac-12 South.

Washington: The Huskies are the clear favorites in the conference.

Washington State: Cougars enter season drawing strength from Hilinski’s memory.

SCHEDULE

For the complete Pac-12 football schedule, click here.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Sports

Jackson’s Matea Lopez and Allie Thomsen leap in the air and high five during the 4A District 1 game against Lake Stevens on Friday, May 16, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Weekend prep softball roundup for May 16-17

Jackson takes third in bi-district tournament.

Stanwood players cheer as pitcher Addi Anderson lifts the 3A District 1 Championship trophy in the air after beating Sedro-Woolley for the title on Thursday, May 15, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Stanwood softball ekes out District 1 3A title

The Spartans defeat top seed Sedro-Woolley 2-1 in 10 innings thanks to Addi Anderson’s gem.

Snohomish’s Abby Edwards yells after beating Edmonds-Woodway in the 3A District 1 consolation game on Thursday, May 15, 2025 in Snohomish, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Snohomish softball punches state tournament ticket

The Panthers stay hot after slow start to season with 12-2 win against Edmonds-Woodway.

Weekend prep track and field roundup for May 15-17

Weekend prep track & field roundup for May 15-17: (Note for coaches/scorekeepers:… Continue reading

Vote for The Herald’s Prep Athlete of the Week for May 4-10

The Athlete of the Week nominees for May 4-10. Voting closes at… Continue reading

Lake Stevens shortstop Aspen Alexander nearly makes a sliding play in the field during a playoff loss to Bothell on Saturday, May 4, 2024, in Lake Stevens, Washington. (Ryan Berry / The Herald)
Prep baseball roundup for Thursday, May 15

Lake Stevens clinches first state berth in eight years.

Monroe’s Hadley Oylear fields the ball during the game against Stanwood on Thursday, May 1, 2025 in Monroe, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Prep softball roundup for Thursday, May 15

Monroe, Snohomish and Edmonds-Woodway clinch state spots.

Prep boys soccer roundup for Thursday, May 15

Lake Stevens clinches state berth, Archbishop Murphy avoids elimination

Jackson’s Chanyoung Park putts during the 4A District 1 Golf Tournament at Snohomish Golf Course on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 in Snohomish, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Chanyoung Park, Jackson girls golf claim District 1 4A titles

The sophomore headlines the Timberwolves’ underclassmen trio on the road to state.

Jackson's Gracie Schouten warms up before a District 1 4A playoff match on May 14, 2025 at Mill Creek Tennis Club. (Qasim Ali / The Herald)
Jackson, Glacier Peak and Mariner girls tennis secure state spots

Jackson took first and second in singles; Glacier Peak won doubles at the District 1 4A Tournament.

Shorewood's Rylie Gettmann hits the ball during a Class 3A District 1 girls tennis tournament at Snohomish High School in Snohomish, Washington on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. (Annie Barker / The Herald)
Shorewood’s Rylie Gettmann four-peats as district tennis champ

Mari Brittle and Bridget Cox completed a Stormrays sweep with the doubles title.

Glacier Peak’s Samantha Nielsen runs across home plate during the game against Issaquah on Monday, May 12, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Prep softball roundup for Wednesday, May 14

Grizzlies roar back to earn state softball bid.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.