The Pac-12 football era has come to an end. Washington State and Oregon State are the only two teams left in the conference, leaving behind a once vibrant and competitive Pac-12 that now seems to be dormant. With only two teams in contention, the conference lacks the competitiveness that once defined it.
Looking back at the history of Pac-12 football, comparing standout quarterbacks from different eras can provide some interesting insights. In 2004, Matt Leinart had an impressive season for USC, leading his team to victory with 33 touchdowns and only 6 interceptions. This remarkable performance helped USC secure a national championship title. In contrast, Marcus Mariota’s 2014 season with Oregon was equally impressive, with over 4,400 yards passing, 42 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. While Mariota’s statistics were superior, Leinart’s championship win is a pivotal factor in the comparison.
USC fans are quick to point out the importance of winning national championships, highlighting the significance of Leinart’s 2004 victory. Although Mariota’s individual performance was exceptional, the ultimate goal of winning a championship was not achieved. USC fans are likely to favor Leinart’s season over Mariota’s due to the added success of winning it all.
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