In sticking with our recent look at the Pac-12, there is plenty to talk about with several of the conference’s coaches. From Seattle to Los Angeles, and all the way out to Boulder, several coaches are looking at pivotal seasons for there programs.
Today, we look at the top Pac-12 coaching story-lines for the 2015 season.
First up is Sonny Dykes at California. Dykes’ first season in Berkeley was nothing short of a disaster, but thanks to the play of quarterback Jared Goff, the Golden Bears bounced back with five wins in year two. Now, in 2015, Cal looks to continue their positive momentum and return to postseason play.
Chris Petersen at Washington went 8-6 in his first year as the head man in Seattle, and expectations are only rising for the Huskies. The key for Petersen will be recreating his QB magic of Boise State, though the status of Cyler Miles is unknown due to his absence from Spring Ball.
When Jim Mora took over at UCLA, he brought swagger back to Westwood. While two ten-win seasons doesn’t equal failure by any means, the Bruins have yet to truly win big under Mora. The question this year will be whether they can do that despite the absence of Brett Hundley.
Across town, Steve Sarkisian is in a prime position to return the Trojans to the top of the conference. After racking up nine wins in year one, the pressure will be on for him to lead USC back to the elite levels of college football.
Out in Boulder, Mike MacIntyre enters year three with the Buffaloes. Colorado went winless in conference play a year ago, and the fan base is pining for a bowl game, something the Buffs haven’t reached in seven years.
