Big West Teams Have Taken Some Big Falls

The scores:

Pittsburgh 38, Pacific 3.

Auburn 55, Pacific 0.

Houston 69, Nevada Las Vegas 0.

USC 66, Utah State 10.

The schedule makers at Big West schools, despite the financial benefits derived from playing “prime-time” teams, are doing long-term damage to the league.

The results demoralize fans. The scores have an adverse effect on attendance. Major mismatches can mean major injuries. A good season by a Big West team is diminished in significance. The gloss is off the California Bowl. A close score is rated a “fluke.”

This is not basketball. The Big West cannot compete with the top 50 programs. Many other teams would provide great “step-up” competition. Wouldn’t it be so much better?

THOMAS RAYE, Ventura