It's doubtful that USC would have went on this run if they played in the SEC, Big-10, Big-12 or ACC.
This is not to say that the PAC-10 is bad or anything, but there just aren't many teams in the conference that are a challenge.
Having to face Florida, Georiga, Auburn, Alabama, Tennessee and LSU all in one year and then again in a championship game is a lot different than facing Oregon and Arizona State.
The same for the Big-10 with Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan, Wisconsin. Even the lower tiered teams can bite you.
Getting by Miami, FSU and Va Tech is not easy task either.
Your so right. Last year, Auburn should've been the undisputed champs. Going undefeated in the SEC is a sh*tload more impressive than anything Carrol's Greeks have done in the last few years.