Pac-12 conference play has officially begun following four weeks of nonconference action. All eight teams competed in their first conference games during Week 5, according to a October 6 report by Jordan Mendoza.
Boise State remains the presumed leader after a 37-18 win against Utah State in their conference debut. While the running game led by Dylan Riley has received attention, Maddux Madsen also performed well during the victory. The Aggies were overmatched on the blue turf, leaving Utah State with a 1-4 record. Washington State also suffered a 26-6 loss to Fresno State, marking their worst start since 2010.
Oregon State secured a 56-26 victory over Colorado State, marking their first three-game win streak since 2023. Quarterback Braden Atkinson threw for a season-best 427 yards, while freshman receiver Jesse Legree recorded two touchdowns and 156 yards. Meanwhile, the Colorado State defense struggled, allowing at least 41 points in three consecutive games. This led coach Jim Mora to relieve his defensive coordinator of play-calling duties during the game.
San Diego State rose to seventh in the rankings following a 31-29 comeback win against Texas State. Jaylon Hawkins contributed a kickoff return touchdown to help the Aztecs snap their losing streak. Texas State, previously ranked fifth, fell to sixth after costly interceptions by Brad Jackson led to a loss. Fresno State moved to 4-1 after their defensive performance limited Washington State to 30 rushing yards.
Upcoming matchups include Boise State at Fresno State and San Diego State at Oregon State. Washington State is scheduled to play Utah State on Friday.
