Washington are Pac-12 Champs!

Las Vegas - The century-old football conference held its final moments in the midst of 65,000 fans clothed in purple and neon green hues, with countless more observing with respect from a distance.

This was the last dance for Pac-12 football, and it arguably had the most splendid evening of its existence. The atmosphere was electrifying, filled with anticipation and excitement. 

Yet, it was tragically ironic that this would be its end. 

Bursts of purple confetti filled the air in the packed Allegiant Stadium as third-ranked Washington rejoiced in their 34-31 triumph against fifth-ranked Oregon, marking their third spectacular win over their neighboring rival in just over a year. This victory held significant weight. With Dillon Johnson's decisive 18-yard run, the Huskies secured a flawless regular season, a Pac-12 championship, and their first appearance in the College Football Playoff since 2016—effectively breaking the Pac-12's dry spell. 

As you watched the Heisman contender, Michael Penix Jr., expertly pass ball after ball to his standout receivers, only for Oregon's Bo Nix to lead his team right back into the fray, it was hard to believe this wasn't the result of a thriving conference that consistently delivered thrilling matches throughout the season. In addition to Penix and Nix, USC’s Caleb Williams, the reigning Heisman winner, and Arizona’s breakout star, freshman Noah Fifita, contributed to the season's success.

"The West Coast offers some exciting football," Oregon linebacker Jeffrey Bassa said following his team's defeat. He marveled at the caliber of quarterbacks he had seen throughout the season. 

Washington led the first half with a 20-3 margin, only for Oregon to bounce back and take the lead 24-20. This was followed by two consecutive Huskies' touchdown drives in the fourth quarter to secure their win. Amidst the action, it was easy to forget the tumultuous 13-month saga of a failed media-rights negotiation that shattered a century-old tradition and led 10 out of the 12 league schools to jump ship. 

Reflecting on the last game of the conference, Washington coach Kalen DeBoer said, "It is sad to witness the end of this historic conference and the legacy of great teams it has produced over the years."

The game's intensity, coupled with the electric atmosphere in the stadium, mirrored the significant improvements Pac-12 football had made over the past few seasons. 

Once the confetti had settled and the stadium had emptied, a final celebration—or eulogy—unfolded on the field. A group of Pac-12 employees came together on the deserted risers as "Good Riddance" by Green Day echoed through the stadium. They cheered, they smiled, and a few even shed tears. 

With this, we bid adieu to our old friend.

All 12 schools will continue their football journey in their respective new homes. They will nurture more talented players, they will win significant games, and perhaps, clinch more championships.

However, West Coast college football may never witness another night as glorious as this one.

DUBS UP! Playoff Time!!!!!!! National Champs let's go!!!