Pac-12 Football 2016: Season preview and predictions

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Dec 5, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans running back Ronald Jones II (25) collides with Stanford Cardinal linebacker Joey Alfieri (32) during the Pac-12 Conference football championship game at Levi /

Biggest game of the year

When picking the biggest game of the year for the Pac-12, it’s hard to pick against a conference championship rematch. Then there should also be given consideration that USC and Stanford could very well meet in the conference championship game again this year. That means when these two teams meet on September 17, it will be a big game for both.

While it’s an early conference game for both teams, it will be a good test to see where the other program is currently at. Last year, Stanford was able to knock off USC twice and the Trojans are going to be looking to go on the road to get some revenge of their own.

It won’t be easy with Christian McCaffrey to defend, but the Trojans have the added benefit of being battle tested going into that game. The team will begin their season against defending National Champions Alabama and therefore will get the best test possible before they prepare to take on Stanford. Of course, both games could result in losses for the Trojans, but they will be ready for what Stanford brings.

Stanford on the other hand, is going to try and break USC’s confidence if they can. Another win over the Trojans would have them feeling good about themselves and a chance to run through the North and whomever the South provides at the conference championship game. This game is early in the year and it will be a great one.

Next: Projected order of finish