[pcgoode]

Given the teams noted below, I'd be interested in hearing who others think will surprise the most on the upside and who will disappoint given the initial AP Poll.

FWIW, here is my take.

Surprise on the Upside

Stanford (I'm biased I know, but I think the media types consistently discount too much the idea that we have a program now as opposed to our historical peaks and valleys).
USC (Great starting 22.  Kessler is a good QB, and if they can stay relatively healthy, could see them beating out UCLA for PAC 12 South Title).
Washington (Peterson is the real deal.  I think they have more talent than people think).

Disappoint

Oregon (Mariota is 0-2 against us, they will have their hands full vs Michigan State, and their D is suspect.  Could see them losing against one of UCLA, Arizona, Washington or Oregon State).
ND (Suspect on D, especially if/when they lose the four players currently suspended.  Not clear to me they will be much of a threat to throw the ball).
ASU (Too many losses on D, without any obvious answers.  I am also not as impressed as others are with Kelly as QB).
UCLA (I think their D is way overrated.  I've seen some pretty good football from Hundley, but not sure if I think he is all everyone makes him out to be.  Running game?).

[pcgoode]

Given the teams noted below, I'd be interested in hearing who others think will surprise the most on the upside and who will disappoint given the initial AP Poll.

FWIW, here is my take.

Surprise on the Upside

Stanford (I'm biased I know, but I think the media types consistently discount too much the idea that we have a program now as opposed to our historical peaks and valleys).
USC (Great starting 22.  Kessler is a good QB, and if they can stay relatively healthy, could see them beating out UCLA for PAC 12 South Title).
Washington (Peterson is the real deal.  I think they have more talent than people think).

Disappoint

Oregon (Mariota is 0-2 against us, they will have their hands full vs Michigan State, and their D is suspect.  Could see them losing against one of UCLA, Arizona, Washington or Oregon State).
ND (Suspect on D, especially if/when they lose the four players currently suspended.  Not clear to me they will be much of a threat to throw the ball).
ASU (Too many losses on D, without any obvious answers.  I am also not as impressed as others are with Kelly as QB).
UCLA (I think their D is way overrated.  I've seen some pretty good football from Hundley, but not sure if I think he is all everyone makes him out to be.  Running game?).