By Bud Withers, Seattle Times -- With five straight national championships, the Southeastern Conference has pretty much put out of reach the debate on where the best football is played. But we would contend the newly expanded Pac-12 bows to no one for its varied landscape, inspiring geography and recreational pursuits. Nor for its gustatory delights. With the additions of Utah and Colorado, we figured it a logical time for a refresher on what you might find if you road-tripped around the conference. The recommendations are from media members around the league who vet this sort of thing.

Utah

Eating/drinking: Ruth's Diner, in Emigration Canyon, is an institution, but be prepared to wait. The Pie Pizzeria near campus is well-known, and Settebello is another choice pizza spot. For lunch, get to Caputo's Deli. Some rave about the Italian at Caffe Molise. Eggs in the City is a choice breakfast stop. Lumpy's is acclaimed as a longtime sports bar.

Go/do: Drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Alta and Snowbird ski resorts.