The Pac-12 Conference kicked off the 2026 college football season with a modest 2‑6 record in Week 1, a mixed showing that set the tone for a year expected to be highly competitive.
Week 1 Highlights
Boise State fell to No. 2 Oregon by a 34‑27 margin, yet sophomore quarterback Maddux Madsen impressed with a solid outing that kept the Broncos within striking distance until the final minutes.
Oregon answered the challenge with a dominant performance, as senior quarterback Dante Moore threw for 378 yards and three touchdowns, underscoring the Ducks' early‑season explosiveness.
Oregon State, despite being outscored 33‑20 by Houston, showed resilience as sophomore quarterback Braden Atkinson made a strong debut, trimming the Cougars' lead to just six points before the final whistle.
In the Apple Cup, Washington edged Washington State 24‑10, with senior receiver Caden Pinnick delivering a standout performance that helped the Huskies secure a clean‑cut victory over their in‑state rivals.
USC and Texas both posted blowout wins, with the Trojans routing Fresno State 39‑0 and the Longhorns dismantling Texas State 59‑7, highlighting the depth of talent across the conference's traditional powerhouses.
San Diego State continued its early success by beating Portland State 53‑20, a game that featured three touchdowns from wide receiver Lucky Sutton, reinforcing the Aztecs' offensive firepower.
Colorado State also made a statement, defeating Wyoming 35‑13, as quarterback Hauss Hejny connected on five touchdown passes, illustrating a prolific passing attack for the Rams.
Conversely, Utah State struggled at home, losing 29‑17 to Idaho State; the Aggies' new transfer quarterback McCae Hillstead threw three interceptions, a factor that contributed to their designation as the conference's weak link in the inaugural season.
Overall, the early results reveal a landscape where certain programs are poised for breakout years while others face significant challenges, suggesting an intriguing narrative as the Pac-12 unfolds over the coming weeks.