Tuesday morning links

From Pullman—Following a hectic week both in the Pac-12 and around the country, the Pac-12 has made a clear case for the arugment that it is the nation’s deepest conference. However, according a Las Vegas insider says that its the toughest at the top as well.

The saga of Oregon assistant Nick Aliotti — who made disparaging remarks about WSU coach Mike Leach following UO’s 62-38 victory — continues. Aliotti made a public apology, to which Leach responded . WSU athletic director Bill Moos had some remarks as well. In the end, Aliotti was fined by the conference despite the apology. Was Aliotti’s greatest strength his downfall ?

The Cougars won’t practice until Thursday with a bye game this weekend … Norman Chad has a third installment of his Couch Slouch series … Has Vince Mayle become a real weapon for Leach’s offense?

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Arizona : Finally, Arizona’s quarterback is good enough to win with … A big Wildcats recruit decided to stay home.

Arizona State : The Sun Devils now have their breakout win … But aren’t getting much love nationally.

Cal : Maybe the Golden Bears need to shake things up at quarterback.

Colorado : The Buffs’ have a tough task ahead of them.

Oregon : De’Anthony Thomas is ready to go against UCLA … For the first time all season Marcus Mariota needs to work on his ball security .

Oregon State : The Beavers have their toughest test yet coming up.

Stanford : The Cardinal bounced back last weekend thanks to a lot of luck (No, not THAT Luck) … not playing fake football helped.

UCLA : Things could be worse for the Bruins.

USC : There’s a kicker controversy in Los Angeles … Josh Shaw’s career boomerang of a career may take another turn.

Utah : Things aren’t exactly going swimmingly in Salt Lake City … Utah needs to have Plan B at quarterback.

Washington : Nick Saban, Joe Steele and others react to the passing of coach Don James.