Pac-10 picks

Funny things seem to happen in Eugene when the Cal Bears come a-calling.

In 2005 the rains came, a Noah-like downpour during an overtime game. The meeting before, it was darkness, as the lights went out in Autzen Stadium.

This week all that should matter is the game, with both teams ranked in the nation’s top dozen and the winner emerging as the main challenger to No. 1-ranked USC.

As always, the spreads are for entertainment purposes only.

Cal at Oregon (Oregon by 4.5): The Ducks have started 4-0 for seemingly the 55th time in the Mike Bellotti era. The Bears have yet to play a true road test. This is a true road test. Oregon 45-42.

UCLA at Oregon State (even): Patrick Cowan is hurt, Ben Olson isn’t. That’s a big reason why the Beavers win and win big. Oregon State 35-14.

USC at Washington (USC by 21): The whole key for the Huskies’ season is not to win this one – they won’t – but to make sure Jake Locker survives any meeting with Rey Maualuga. USC 45-24.

Arizona State at Stanford (ASU by 14): Wouldn’t it be strange if the Cardinal pulled the upset now that the Sun Devils have finally been ranked? Strange, but also improbable. Arizona State 42-10.

Washington State at Arizona (Arizona by 2.5): This is a make-or-break game for both teams. If the game were in Pullman, the Cougars would be favored. But in Tucson? Well, WSU has won the last three times in Arizona. Make it four. WSU 42-41.

Last week: 4-1 overall, 2-3 vs. spread; Season: 25-7 overall, 12-18 vs. spread.