The Pac-12 conference, reborn with eight teams and a new identity, is poised to inject chaos into the college football landscape. While Boise State is the early favorite to claim the conference title, betting markets suggest that Washington State, one of the two holdovers from the original Pac-12, presents significant value.
Boise State leads the odds at +165 to win the Pac-12, followed by San Diego State (+400), Texas State (+550), and Fresno State (+600). Washington State enters with +800 odds, while Oregon State is listed at 22/1. Utah State is at 13/1, and Colorado State has the longest odds at 30/1.
Despite a roster featuring many new faces, including transfers like quarterback Caden Pinnick and Florida transfer wide receiver Tank Hawkins, Washington State has been remarkably consistent on the field. New head coach Kirby Moore, who previously served as offensive coordinator at Missouri, has reportedly attracted considerable talent to Pullman. The team is expected to lean on a strong running game, a capable offensive line, and a receiving corps with high potential. "Moore knows how to get an offense going, too," notes one preview.
However, the Cougars' defense will see substantial turnover after a strong performance in 2025. This defensive uncertainty, combined with a difficult opening stretch of games against Washington, Kansas State, Duquesne, and Arizona, could lead to an early season record of 1-3. This challenging start may present an opportunity for bettors to acquire favorable odds on Washington State before conference play begins.
The preview acknowledges that questions surround multiple teams in the conference. Boise State's quarterback Maddux Madsen experienced a dip in performance last season, and other teams like Fresno State and San Diego State may struggle to score points. Texas State, conversely, could face offensive challenges of a different nature.
"The point is that there is a path for Washington State to spring a surprise here," the preview states. The Cougars will also benefit from home games against Boise State and Fresno State. Ultimately, the combination of new coaching talent and the potential upside of the roster has positioned Washington State as a compelling long-shot bet for the Pac-12 title.