Three And Out

1 USC's most viable Pac-10 challenger will be determined this Saturday when No. 6 Cal visits No. 11 Oregon. The Bears' pass defense (88th nationally) could be in for a long day against Ducks QB Dennis Dixon, the nation's fourth-rated passer.

2 A blowout loss at Miami, on the heels of a near upset at home by Fresno State, shows that Texas A&M isn't close to where it should be after five years under coach Dennis Franchione. It may take another upset of Texas to save his job.

3 Ohio State quarterback Todd Boeckman—a 66% passer, with 10 TDs and only three interceptions—has been a pleasant surprise. It's not unreasonable to think the Buckeyes, who field the nation's No. 2 defense, could enter the regular-season finale against Michigan undefeated again.