Pac-10 picks

Rivalry games are always tough to figure. And there are three of them in the conference this week.

Which gives me confidence.

Confidence I’ll finish 2-2 this week. Heck, if we’re talking about the spread, it would be an improvement.

As always, the listed line is for your entertainment purposes only.

Arizona at Arizona State (UA by 3): We know Arizona is the better team. What we don’t know is how much the Oregon loss took out of the Wildcats. We’re guessing not enough to make a difference. UA, 27-21.

UCLA at USC (USC by 13): After watching dozens of these games since I was young, I think I have a handle on the emotions involved. But I’m probably wrong. USC, 24-14.

Notre Dame at Stanford (Stanford by 10): Will the Irish play for Charlie Weis or will they treat him like a lame duck? It won’t matter. Stanford is better. Though not that much better. Stanford, 24-17.

Washington State at Washington (UW by 24.5): I’m torn here. Either the Cougars will rise up, play like they did last year and keep it close, or their lack of depth will help the Huskies pound them into submission. Let’s split the difference. UW, 42-21.

Last week: 3-1 overall, 1-3 vs. spread. Season: 49-19 overall, 27-35 vs. spread.