The full force of Pac-12 play begins this week and, for the Hotline, brings the same goal as always: Distinguishing the contenders from pretenders.
Are Arizona State and Utah as good as they looked against non-conference opponents?
Should Oregon be dismissed?
Has USC regressed?
Are Arizona and UCLA light years better than everyone else?
On that last point, we believe an affirmative reality awaits: The Wildcats and Bruins will finish multiple games clear of everyone else in a two-team duel for the regular-season title.
Our predictions are below …
— NET rankings through Monday
— Offensive/defensive efficiency ratings (national) taken from kenpom.com
1. UCLA (11-2/2-0)
Coach: Mick Cronin (fourth