UCLA -13.5 over Washington State

After allowing 93 points in previous two outings, UCLA did almost the unthinkable by shutting out Stanford last week.  It was the teams first shutout of a conference opponent since 1987 and first shutout of any kind in eight years.  Defensive leader LB Justin London (10 tackles) is finally himself again and fellow junior LB Spencer Havner (Butkis award watch list) continued his strong play with 16 tackles.  The defense allowed just 2.5 yards per carry on the ground.  I have always spoke highly of Bruin defensive coordinator Larry Kerr (formerly at Colorado State) and all indications are that this defense is ready to play at a much higher level than they have for most of the season.  Offensively, UCLA again dominated on the ground with a 6.5ypc average.  The Bruins are back at full strength on this side of the ball with top WR Craig Bragg back in the lineup and healthy again.  He led the team in receiving last week.  Washington State is in a huge downward spiral.  They have lost four straight and are 1-4 in Pac-10 play.  They would be 0-5 if not for a fluke one point come from behind win at winless Arizona in which they took advantage of a late fumble to drive for the winning touchdown.  The Cougars started the season with fewer returning starters than any Pac-10 team and have been dealt a rash of injuries along the way including starting QB Josh Swogger who was just starting to play better before going down.  Last week the Cougars were never competitive vs USC falling behind 14-0 in the first couple of minutes and 35-0 by half-time.  They have allowed 36.0ppg in last four games and new starting QB is completing just 42.5% of his passes with more interceptions than touchdowns.  All WSU has to look forward to is possibly winning the Apple Cup vs Washington in season finale.  UCLA can guarantee a winning season and become bowl eligible with a win here.

 

Arizona State -10.5 over Stanford

The Sun Devils have only lost twice, at #1 USC, and at #7 Cal.  They lost 27-0 at Cal last week but it just was not their day.  Arizona State fumbled on their first offensive play and gave up a touchdown on their first defensive play to fall behind 7-0 off the bat.  They did not get past the 50 yard line in the first half but were still within striking distance down 13-0 at half-time.  The offense found its legs in the second half and went on three long drives totaling 160 yards but still came away with no points after a missed field goal and two turnovers.  One of the turnovers being returned for a touchdown.  They also drove inside the Cal 10 yard line in the 4th quarter but were stopped on downs.  All in all the stats were about even for the game except for ASU's glaring 5 turnovers to Cal's 0.  The Sun Devils will still be favorites to sweep their remaining opponents and get to a quality bowl game.  It should be a nice going out party for record setting senior QB Andrew Walter.  Look out for Stanford next year, but right now they are just too young on offense and not nearly dominant enough on defense to be a factor in the Pac-10.  Sophomore QB Trent Edwards had a promising start to the season but his numbers have digressed ever since.  He had six touchdowns and one interception in first three games but has thrown just one touchdown with seven interceptions since.  After last weeks 21-0 loss at UCLA, Stanford is now 4-9 ATS in road games (1-5 ATS last 6) under Buddy Teevens.  Arizona State meanwhile is best in the home favorite role.  Under Koetter they are 11-7 ATS as a home favorite and just 8-16 ATS in all other roles.