Seriously, the PAC 10 is a stunningly weak conference and all they get is the benefit of every doubt.
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.