Ten teams left the Pac-12, forcing Oregon State and Washington State to dance alone. That brings the 2024 Pac-12 Power Rankings to one question: Which team is better?
According to FanDuel, the Beavers and Cougars each have 7.5 win totals in Mountain West-heavy schedules. While I wouldn’t bet money on either hitting the over, one is more likely than the other.
2024 Pac-12 Power Rankings
2) Oregon State Beavers
Preseason Rank: 1 (-1)
Following three straight losing seasons to begin his tenure, Jonathan Smith turned Oregon State into a Pac-12 competitor, owning a 25-13 record and three bowl appearances over the last three years. Yet, he saw the writing on the wall for the conference and jumped ship for the leading role at Michigan State, taking several coaches and players with him.
Perhaps the most impactful athlete joining the head coach in East Lansing is highly touted QB Aidan Chiles. His loss hurts even more with starter DJ Uiagalelei departing for Florida State earlier in the offseason.
While an early season contest with Oregon looms, the Beavers’ schedule does not include any obvious losses, and kicking off the year with victories over Idaho State and San Diego State should only boost their confidence.
1) Washington State Cougars
Preseason Rank: 2 (+1)
The Cougars saw a mass exodus of talent via the portal, losing 27 players and adding just 12. Among the losses was uber-talented starting QB Cam Ward, who is now a Miami Hurricane.
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Head coach Jake Dickert is facing an uphill battle in Year 3, but redshirt sophomore John Mateer dazzled through the air in Week 1 against Portland State (352 yards and five TDs) and on the ground against Texas Tech (21-197-1). If he can maintain that level of play, Mateer could provide the spark Washington State needs to stay competitive.
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