With the conference returning to the College Football Playoff last season, the Pac-12 regained status. Here’s the biggest question facing each team in 2017.
The Pac-12 rebounded in a big way in 2016. After missing the College Football Playoff the season prior, the conference roared back as the Washington Huskies made it in as the Pac-12 Champions. If the Huskies getting the conference in the playoff wasn’t enough, USC had a defining moment.
The Trojans led by Sam Darnold, went on an incredible run to end the season that culminated with them defeating the Penn State Nittany Lions in a Rose Bowl thriller. Needless to say, there is plenty of optimism surrounding the conference heading into 2017.
With 12 teams hoping to take another step this year, things are looking up for some programs, while others have plenty of questions. Still, it’s going to be a long road for each of these programs and they all will have to answer them. Here are the biggest offseason questions facing each team.
12. Arizona – Can Khalil Tate take the starting QB job?
Between injuries, poor offensive line play and a revolving door at the spot, the Arizona Wildcats are seeking more consistency out of the quarterback position. Last year, the Wildcats limped to the end with a 3-9 victory before a blowout of rival Arizona State in the finale.
The big question going into the 2017 season is whether or not Khalil Tate can catch Brandon Dawkins for the starting quarterback spot. Dawkins is currently holding the spot but this is by no means a closed race.
When a team wins one game in the conference, no one should be considered a lock at the quarterback spot. Still, Tate has the opportunity to be dynamic with his big play ability that he has shown in the spring.
If there’s a chance that Tate can catch up to Dawkins, then there shouldn’t be any questions about whether or not Rodriguez will turn to him. The team needs one of these two to flash and to stay healthy most of all.