Pac-12 expert picks 2021-22: Projected order of finish, bold predictions, most overrated and underrated teams

The Pac-12 made a loud resurgence onto the nationwide scene throughout the 2021 NCAA Match by sending three groups to the Elite Eight, together with No. 11 seed UCLA, which superior from the First 4 to the Last 4. Now, because the 2021-22 season dawns, the Bruins have swapped out their underdog standing for a No. 2 nationwide rating and expectations of an outright league title.

Whereas UCLA is predicted to be the usual bearer for the league in 2021-22, there’s hope the Pac-12 as an entire can maintain the momentum it generated within the NCAA Tournament. The league despatched simply three groups to the Massive Dance in 2018 and 2019 however confirmed its potential final season as all 5 of its NCAA Match groups received at the very least one recreation within the occasion.

Oregon and USC needs to be strong once more after reaching the Candy 16 and Elite Eight, respectively, final season. Oregon State additionally brings again a number of key gamers from a shocking Elite Eight run and appears able to reaching one other NCAA Match. However there are additionally mysteries on most of the league’s rosters as each program aside from UCLA should change its main scorer. Let’s dive in and being to unpack what’s in retailer for the Pac-12.

CBS Sports activities Pac-12 Preseason Participant of the Yr 

Johnny Juzang, UCLA

Juzang transferred again residence to California after enjoying sparingly at Kentucky as a freshman in 2019-20, and he actually received the breakup with the Wildcats. Whereas UK struggled final season, Juzang thrived and led the Bruins to the Last 4. He averaged a shocking 22.8 factors per recreation throughout the NCAA Match and turned down the NBA Draft to return for extra. UCLA has a lot expertise that it could be shocking if Juzang improves on final season’s common of 16 factors per recreation, however there’s little doubt about who can have the ball in clutch moments for the league’s consensus favourite. 

CBS Sports activities Pac-12 Preseason Coach of the Yr 

Mick Cronin, UCLA

Cronin has accomplished his greatest work late within the season throughout his first two years on the job after arriving from Cincinnati for the 2019-20 season following a wild UCLA teaching search. He wasn’t the Bruins’ first alternative, however it’s clear now that he’s the person for the job. He managed to maintain the roster in tact upon arrival and has accomplished so once more following final season’s particular Last 4 run. We’ll see how the Bruins fare because the hunted group for the primary time below his course, however every part he is accomplished to this point suggests he’ll have the Bruins able to shine within the nationwide highlight.

CBS Sports activities Pac-12  Preseason Freshman of the Yr 

Peyton Watson, UCLA

Given the expertise the Bruins return, Watson might not be required to hold a heavy load early. However the 6-foot-8 small ahead brings a singular aspect of size and flexibility to the wing for UCLA and will show arduous to avoid a featured position. His potential defensive versatility ought to give coach Mick Cronin some lineup flexibility.

CBS Sports activities Pac-12 predicted order of end

The consensus order as voted by our consultants with how they voted under

Most overrated group

Arizona

It looks like Wildcats’ are getting the good thing about the doubt based mostly on their historical past by touchdown fourth in our ballot. First-year coach Tommy Lloyd has by no means been a Division I head coach and will likely be baptized by hearth throughout a non convention schedule that features Wichita State, No. 11 Illinois, No. 18 Tennessee and doubtlessly No. 6 Michigan. Bennedict Mathurin and Azuolas Tubelis are promising sophomores, and the Wildcats have another doubtlessly strong items. However they’re too lean on veterans and confirmed manufacturing to be trusted as a lock for the league’s higher third.

Most underrated group

Arizona State

The Solar Devils had been some of the disappointing group within the nation final season, however sixth-year coach Bobby Hurley has already turned the Solar Devils round as soon as in his tenure. In an effort to do it once more, he is overhauled his again courtroom with transfers and newcomers. As long as he hit on a few them, this group will likely be higher than eighth within the Pac-12. Getting Marcus Bagley for an additional season was big after the heralded prospect handled accidents final season. If he stays wholesome and a pair serviceable guards emerge, this group will exceed expectations.

How our consultants voted