Pac-10 picks

OK, someone pinch me. This must be a dream, right? I don’t think I’ve ever had a perfect week.

Oh sure, I missed the USC game, but even the Pac-10 admitted the officials misinterpreted (read, blew) a rule in that game and, without that, Virginia would have won, right? So I’m counting it.

After all, when I revert to the mean, it may be the only positive memory I may have from this season.

As always, the listed line is for your entertainment purposes only. All games Saturday unless listed otherwise.

California at Nevada (Cal by 2.5), Friday: This is a tough one. The Bears have been playing well – at home. The Wolf Pack are much better at home, though they haven’t proved they can stop anyone yet. Cal 42-33.

Arizona State at Wisconsin (UW by 14): The Sun Devils’ strength is their defense, though speed is what makes it work. The Badgers’ strength is their strength. If this game were in the desert, I’d go the other way. But … Wisconsin 35-24.

USC at Minnesota (USC by 12.5): Yeah, you would see Alabama or Florida playing in Minnesota. Sure. This seems like the right game for the Trojans to get well. USC 35-14.

Louisville at Oregon State (OSU by 19.5): Two weeks to prepare? That’s more than the Beavers needed. OSU 49-10.

Portland State at Oregon (no line): Why play a game like this? This one won’t be close. Let’s hope it’s safe. Oregon 55-3.

Iowa at Arizona (Iowa by 1.5): The third of the three Pac-10 vs. Big Ten matchups. This is the game the Wildcats prove their worth. Arizona 28-17.

Houston at UCLA (Houston by 3): The line must reflect the uncertain status of Houston quarterback Case Keenum. I’m not uncertain. The Bruins aren’t very good. Houston 42-17.

Nebraska at Washington (Nebraska by 3.5): No one must think the Huskers travel well. They might be right. Nebraska 21-17.

Washington State at SMU (SMU by 23): The spread keeps growing as no one believes in the Cougars. That’s not hard to understand. SMU 30-21.

Last week: 7-1 overall, 5-0 vs. spread; Season: 16-2 overall, 10-2 vs. spread.