US LBM Coaches Survey, Week 7
Paul Myerberg breaks down this week’s US LBM Coaches Poll and talks about Washington’s rise in the rankings.
Sports pulse
This week’s USA TODAY Sports NCAA Re-Rank 1-133 has to start with the Pac-12.
Washington’s 36-33 win over Oregon puts the Huskies at No. 3, behind unchanged top two No. 1 Michigan and No. 2 Georgia. The Wolverines and Bulldogs had bad moments against Indiana and Vanderbilt, respectively, before rallying to easy wins against two of the worst teams in the Power Five.
However, the Ducks didn’t fall far behind. After the narrow defeat, Oregon only fell two places to 9th place. While the two programs are expected to join the Big Ten after this season, there’s a chance the rivals could meet again to decide the final Pac-12 title in league history.
On the other hand, Southern California finally became known as a College Football Playoff contender after a 48-20 loss to Notre Dame. That drops the Trojans eight spots to No. 21 and the Fighting Irish to No. 19.
USC has consistently struggled on defense since signing Lincoln Riley, but really struggled on offense against Notre Dame, with Caleb Williams throwing three interceptions in the first half and setting the tone for a lopsided loss.
UPS AND DOWNS: Washington leads Week 7 winners and losers
Misery index: Oregon tops the list after Lanning’s gamble backfired
One team taking a step in the right direction is North Carolina, moving up to No. 8 after a nice win against Miami. Drake Maye had four touchdown passes, three of them to receiver Tez Walker, as the Tar Heels’ offense continued to play like one of the best in program history.
And in the Group of Five, Air Force moves up five to 15th place after a 34-27 win over Wyoming. The Falcons have one of the best defensive units in the country and are a real threat to lead the league in the regular season.
