Nick Bartlett’s Brash Week 12 Football Predictions

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Posted on November 19, 2021


  By Nick Bartlett, SuperWest Sports

You’re welcome. Those of you who you followed Nick’s No-Nonsense Betting Tips last week went a sizzling 4-1.

That puts me at 23-12 over the past seven weeks, good for a 66% success rate.

The pick that jumped up and bit me last Saturday was based on my unfounded confidence in the Huskies. Once again, Washington started decent, but finished poorly. That’s putting it politely.

This week feels a little trickier, with two rivalries and both division titles on the line, along with a potential College Football Playoff spot.

The good news for both Utah and Oregon is that a loss by either team won’t eliminate them from Rose Bowl contention. This year, the Ducks would be happy to see the Utes go to Pasadena in exchange for a CFP bowl.

As always, my predictions come with incredibly accurate game scores and just enough commentary to keep me from having to get another cup of coffee and some more pastries.

Washington State 38, Arizona 21

At this point of the year we should all be happy with the progress Arizona has made. In their last two outings they’ve found a way to compete, which is indicative of a program on the right track.

I even voted for Will Plummer as my Freshman of the Week. Nevertheless, they are still extremely barren of talent and will likely run into a drunk fan base who’s ready to represent.

Washington State is talented, hungry, and it’s their final home game of the season. Friday night on the Palouse—does it get much better than that?

Wazzu by two touchdowns and a field goal.

Washington 27, Colorado 17

Errrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. The Washington Touchdown Siren has just sounded the Jimmy Lake era in Montlake.

Actually the siren may have lasted longer than Lake. Nonetheless, Interim Head Coach Bob Gregory and the Dawgs still have an opportunity to become bowl-eligible.

A win against Colorado would set them up for a pivotal Apple Cup matchup to end their regular season.

For the Buffs, well, they’re playing for pride. But having lost by 24 last weekend, I don’t know how much pride they have left.

This matchup features two mediocre quarterbacks and a beautiful backdrop for a college football game. Enjoy the view…

Huskies by 10.

UCLA 34, USC 20

This is one of these prediction previews that I kinda feel bad writing. Before the season began, many of us thought USC was a legit Pac-12 title contender, and maybe even a College Football Playoff team.

Now, the Trojans are about as middle-of-the-road as a program can get. And without Drake London, probably even worse.

No doubt, Chip Kelly understands the importance of this matchup. Even though the Bruins have qualified for a bowl, this season feels like it could’ve been better. A win against their rival turns their year from an eh-okay to A-okay!

UCLA by a pair of touchdowns.

Cal 27, Stanford 20

This year’s version of the Big Game would make Snorlax proud (That’s a Pokemon reference, if you’re not familiar). Both of these teams feature confusing quarterback situations, limited talent, and lethargic fanbases.

However, there actually is a reason to tune in: California can still become bowl eligible. Shockingly, if the Golden Bears were to win their final three games, they would wind up 6-6.

That’s a woods-yell away from their 1-5 start. For Stanford, having signal caller Tanner McKee back could make things more interesting. If not, pray for the Tree.

Cal by seven.

Oregon 35, Utah 28

This is one of the first Pac-12 games I’m actually excited to watch this year. Could this be how it feels to be a SEC fan?

In all seriousness, this contest should prove extremely exciting. Oregon has the looks of a legitimate CFP team, and Utah is probably their last legitimate test.

The Utes are outmanned as usual when facing the Ducks. But never bet against a Kyle Whittingham-coached team. No jokes here. This should be a phenomenal matchup.

Ducks by seven.

Arizona State 28, Oregon State 21

This is one of those games that many people think should end up being close, but I’m not one of them. Arizona State may have found something last week with their come-from-behind victory over UW.

The win kept them in the South race, allegations aside.

Oregon State is essentially playing a more talented version of themselves. If the Beavers are going to compete in this matchup, they need Chance Nolan to make plays through the air. And that’s not a sure bet.

ASU by seven.

[Get ready for the games with Stephen Vilardo’s Week 12 Matchups by the Numbers and Dane Miller’s Previews]

—More from Nick Bartlett—