By: Ben Leonard
Follow Ben on Twitter @Ben___Leonard
Stanford came into Tuesday’s Foster Farms Bowl as heavy favorites against the Maryland Terrapins. They left nothing to be desired after a dominant 45-21 win over the Terps, controlling both sides of the ball. The Cardinal held 35-7 lead early in the third quarter, and took their foot off the gas after that. They did so without Ty Montgomery, who was out with a shoulder injury. A senior, Montgomery did not have a chance to end his career on a high note. Although Montgomery did not have a chance to do so, the Cardinal did not squander their opportunity to bring momentum into 2015 after a disappointing 8-5 season.
Quarterback Kevin Hogan had a nearly flawless game, completing fourteen passes of twenty passes for 189 yards and two touchdowns. The chilly conditions at Levi’s Stadium didn’t fluster Hogan, who had no trouble throwing the ball to all sides of the field. His continued stretch of efficiency could make him jump to the NFL after this season, opening the door for redshirt freshman Keller Chryst to take over. Chryst appeared to be picking Hogan’s mind in the waning stages of the game, looking for nuggets of wisdom from the senior signal-caller.
Hogan (8) mentors Chryst (10) on the sideline in Tuesday's bowl game. (Image: Own)
HOGAN (8) MENTORS CHRYST (10) ON THE SIDELINE IN TUESDAY’S BOWL GAME. (IMAGE: OWN)
Hogan appeared calm, cool, and collected in the pocket, with Maryland’s defensive front providing little resistance. He worked the intermediate passing game very well, completing seven passes of more than ten yards. He connected twice with receiver Devon Cajuste for scores, who took advantage of an undersized Terps’ secondary. Hogan spread the ball very well, with ten different receivers catching passes. He seemed to go through his progressions very slowly, a product of Montgomery’s absence. Hogan looked to his tight ends frequently, completing seven passes for 102 yards, including seventy-one to freshman phenom Austin Hooper. Hogan’s efforts earned him the Foster Farms Bowl offensive MVP award.
Hogan’s only miscue came on a fumbled handoff early in the third, when he inexplicably dropped the ball before handing it off to his back. It did not hurt the Cardinal in the end, as Maryland quarterback C.J. Brown immediately threw an interception to safety Kyle Olugbode. Brown overthrew his receiver by several feet, giving Olugbode an easy play on the ball. Stanford would respond with a quick touchdown drive, capped by Cajuste’s second touchdown catch. Cajuste finished with four catches for forty-seven yards, and will announce whether he will stay for another season at Stanford, or leave for the NFL on Wednesday.
David Shaw finally let Christian McCaffery do his thing, something Stanford fans have been calling for all season long. McCaffery’s speed and agility is well-suited for outside runs, and Maryland’s poor secondary allowed Stanford to utilize McCaffery to exploit this weakness. Stanford’s offense more closely resembled Oregon’s spread offense on Tuesday night to take advantage of this deficiency. They utilized intermediated passes and runs outside the tackles to avoid Maryland’s relatively stronger defensive front.
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THE CARDINAL SPACED OUT THEIR OFFENSE ON TUESDAY, AS SHOWN ABOVE.
He rushed for fifty-seven yards on just seven carries, and returned four punts for eighty-one yards. His electric play-making ability figures to play a larger role in 2015, although his style does not necessarily fit Stanford’s philosophy of physical running.
In spite of a poor second drive, the Cardinal defense was dominant, holding Maryland to just seventeen rushing yards. They controlled the line of scrimmage all game long, only letting up with the score well out of hand in the second half. Dual-threat quarterback C.J. Brown was kept in check, throwing for just 205 yards on twenty seven attempts. A big twenty-six yard catch by receiver Stefon Diggs led Maryland to their only score in the first half, facilitating the drive. Outside of that drive, the Terps gathered just 178 total yards. Foster Farms Bowl Defensive MVP James Vaughters led the charge for the Cardinal, sacking Brown twice and forcing a fumble. Tuesday’s game was the last for Vaughters at Stanford, who will enter the NFL Draft after graduating.
Although Stanford won just eight games in 2014, they were one play away from beating both Notre Dame and USC. They did not have quite as awful of a year as it has been made out to be, and have a bright future with McCaffery leading the charge. Whether or not Hogan leaves, the Cardinal are poised for a more successful 2015 campaign. Their school bowl record forty-five point outburst gives the offense confidence for next year, with Montgomery and Peat being the only players likely to leave. That is not the case on defense, with A.J. Tarpley, Vaughters, and Henry Anderson all graduating, to name a few. The Cardinal may be disappointed with 2014, but the Foster Farms Bowl was something to “cluck” about.
Showing posts with label David Shaw. Show all posts
Showing posts with label David Shaw. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Saturday, September 13, 2014
BASTA: Army Cannot Keep Pace With High Flying Cardinal in 35-0 Romp
((HT: BASTA/Ben Leonard))
After a heart-wrenching loss to USC, Stanford needed a morale booster. The Army Black Knights certainly provided that. Despite weak play from the offense in the first half, the defense locked down the Black Knight’s triple option attack, holding them to 207 total yards, 198 of which were on the ground. Stanford punted on four of its first six possessions, a troubling sign for a team that should have physically overwhelmed Army.
Kevin Hogan struggled in the first half, missing several open receivers. The overall numbers in the first half, 12 of 19 passes for two touchdowns, doesn’t seem to be too troubling. However, missing targets against an Army secondary that surrendered 401 yards through the air to a weak Buffalo team is a cause for concern. Hogan tightened it up in the second half, making his final line 20 for 28, with 216 yards and four touchdowns.
Devon Cajuste man-handled the Army secondary, hauling in three touchdown passes from Kevin Hogan. His 23 yard-touchdown capped a 65-yard drive on the opening drive of the game, giving Stanford the early 7-0 lead. No one was in the vicinity of Cajuste, scoring easily on a fade pass from Hogan. Stanford’s offense scuffled after this first drive, crossing midfield only twice on their next four drives. After Alex Carter forced running back Larry Dixon to fumble, linebacker Kevin Anderson recovered it at the Army 15 yard line. Stanford now had a golden opportunity to score with a minute and a half left in the half. Hogan and the offense worked down to the two yard line. On third and goal from the two, Hogan threw a jump ball to Cajuste in the back right corner of the end zone, and Cajuste hauled it in to extend Stanford’s halftime lead to 14-0.
Stanford’s defense had no problems with Army’s unconventional triple option offense, only allowing them to cross midfield three times in nine drives before the starters gave way to the backups in the fourth. Holding Army to nine passing yards may seem impressive, but the Black Knight offense is built to run, and scarcely passes. Army only threw five passes, completing three and throwing one interception. A.J. Tarpley picked off backup quarterback A.J. Shurr early in the fourth quarter, ending an Army drive that had reached the Stanford 42 yard line. Stanford’s defense has now allowed fewer than 30 points in 26 straight games, dating back to a 54-48 overtime shootout win over Arizona in 2012.
Here's the recap from The Farm
((HT: Pac-12 Network))
Notes: Stanford will have a bye next Saturday, and take on Washington on September 27th at a time to be determined. The Cardinal moved to 8-0 under coach David Shaw following a loss, and hasn’t lost consecutive games since 2009, Andrew Luck’s first season starting for the Cardinal. Running back Remound Wright did not play Saturday because of an undisclosed reason, likely a disciplinary suspension.
After a heart-wrenching loss to USC, Stanford needed a morale booster. The Army Black Knights certainly provided that. Despite weak play from the offense in the first half, the defense locked down the Black Knight’s triple option attack, holding them to 207 total yards, 198 of which were on the ground. Stanford punted on four of its first six possessions, a troubling sign for a team that should have physically overwhelmed Army.
Kevin Hogan struggled in the first half, missing several open receivers. The overall numbers in the first half, 12 of 19 passes for two touchdowns, doesn’t seem to be too troubling. However, missing targets against an Army secondary that surrendered 401 yards through the air to a weak Buffalo team is a cause for concern. Hogan tightened it up in the second half, making his final line 20 for 28, with 216 yards and four touchdowns.
Devon Cajuste man-handled the Army secondary, hauling in three touchdown passes from Kevin Hogan. His 23 yard-touchdown capped a 65-yard drive on the opening drive of the game, giving Stanford the early 7-0 lead. No one was in the vicinity of Cajuste, scoring easily on a fade pass from Hogan. Stanford’s offense scuffled after this first drive, crossing midfield only twice on their next four drives. After Alex Carter forced running back Larry Dixon to fumble, linebacker Kevin Anderson recovered it at the Army 15 yard line. Stanford now had a golden opportunity to score with a minute and a half left in the half. Hogan and the offense worked down to the two yard line. On third and goal from the two, Hogan threw a jump ball to Cajuste in the back right corner of the end zone, and Cajuste hauled it in to extend Stanford’s halftime lead to 14-0.
Stanford’s defense had no problems with Army’s unconventional triple option offense, only allowing them to cross midfield three times in nine drives before the starters gave way to the backups in the fourth. Holding Army to nine passing yards may seem impressive, but the Black Knight offense is built to run, and scarcely passes. Army only threw five passes, completing three and throwing one interception. A.J. Tarpley picked off backup quarterback A.J. Shurr early in the fourth quarter, ending an Army drive that had reached the Stanford 42 yard line. Stanford’s defense has now allowed fewer than 30 points in 26 straight games, dating back to a 54-48 overtime shootout win over Arizona in 2012.
Here's the recap from The Farm
((HT: Pac-12 Network))
Notes: Stanford will have a bye next Saturday, and take on Washington on September 27th at a time to be determined. The Cardinal moved to 8-0 under coach David Shaw following a loss, and hasn’t lost consecutive games since 2009, Andrew Luck’s first season starting for the Cardinal. Running back Remound Wright did not play Saturday because of an undisclosed reason, likely a disciplinary suspension.
Sunday, September 7, 2014
BASTA: Cardinal Throws Away Game Versus Trojans
((HT: BASTA/Leonard))
Saturday was a game of what could have been for the Stanford Cardinal. Penalties, turnovers, missed field goals, and poor execution in the red zone led to a disastrous 13-10 loss to the USC Trojans, despite out-gaining USC 413 to 291. Andre Hedari hit a game winning field goal for the Trojans with two minutes and thirty seconds left in a moment of deja vu for the Cardinal, who lost last season on a last-second field goal by Hedari. All nine Stanford drives got inside the Trojan 25 yard-line, but they only scored twice. Stanford has scored three touchdowns in sixteen trips inside the thirty yard-line this season, a disturbing number.
The first play of the game was indicative of the atrocity that was to come for the Cardinal; a false start by Johnny Caspers. Another Caspers penalty, this time for tripping, stalled a Cardinal offense that was humming along, taking it all the way to the USC 21 yard-line. Stanford had gained 45 yards on the ground on the drive, but the second penalty killed the drive, setting up a third down and thirty-two. Jordan Williamson missed a 49-yard field goal, hooking it several yards wide left, reminiscent of his struggles in the Fiesta Bowl.
USC took over at their own thirty-two yard line, and marched down the field, tearing apart the Stanford defense. The drive was capped by a Justin Davis one-yard touchdown run. USC back Javorius Allen had three consecutive carries of 8+ yards on the drive, taking USC from the Stanford 40 yard line to the 15, keying the score.
On the next drive, Stanford drove down the field again, all the way to the thirteen yard line, but a horrible snap by Graham Shuler flew over the head of Ty Montgomery, who was running out of the wildcat. Stanford recovered the ball after losing 16 yards, going all the way back to the USC 29. David Shaw clearly had no faith in kicker Jordan Williamson at this point, as he then chose to punt from the 29 yard-line.
After a Trojan three and out, Stanford once again marched down the field, this time capitalizing on the opportunity, with Patrick Skov taking a two-yard run in for the score, tying the game at seven apiece. With three minutes left in the half, Stanford took the ball all the way to the USC 16 yard line on the back of Kevin Hogan. Hogan threw for 65 yards on the drive, setting up a chip shot 33 yard field goal for Williamson with eleven seconds left to go. Williamson’s field goal gave Stanford a 10-7 lead going into the half. Williamson missed a similar field goal in Stanford’s first drive of the second half, a 26 yarder that inexplicably went wide left. Stanfor was stopped on fourth down in their next drive at the Trojan three yard line. Andre Hedari added a 25-yard field goal with just under a minute left in the third, tying the game up at ten apiece.
Hedari hit a 53-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, giving the Trojans a 13-10 lead with 2:30 left for Stanford to make a comeback. Hogan completed five straight passes, taking Stanford all the way down to the USC 22. After a sack, Hogan was hit while he was attempting to throw by senior linebacker J.R. Tavai, forcing a fumble that USC recovered to seal the win. Hogan played well (22/30, 285 yards), but could not come up clutch in the redzone to give his team the victory. The loss ended the nation’s longest home winning streak for the Cardinal, a 17-game run dating back to 2011. Stanford will need to execute better if they want to succeed this season against a horribly difficult schedule.
Here's the highlights in depth of 13 versus 14
((HT: Pac-12 Network))
Saturday was a game of what could have been for the Stanford Cardinal. Penalties, turnovers, missed field goals, and poor execution in the red zone led to a disastrous 13-10 loss to the USC Trojans, despite out-gaining USC 413 to 291. Andre Hedari hit a game winning field goal for the Trojans with two minutes and thirty seconds left in a moment of deja vu for the Cardinal, who lost last season on a last-second field goal by Hedari. All nine Stanford drives got inside the Trojan 25 yard-line, but they only scored twice. Stanford has scored three touchdowns in sixteen trips inside the thirty yard-line this season, a disturbing number.
The first play of the game was indicative of the atrocity that was to come for the Cardinal; a false start by Johnny Caspers. Another Caspers penalty, this time for tripping, stalled a Cardinal offense that was humming along, taking it all the way to the USC 21 yard-line. Stanford had gained 45 yards on the ground on the drive, but the second penalty killed the drive, setting up a third down and thirty-two. Jordan Williamson missed a 49-yard field goal, hooking it several yards wide left, reminiscent of his struggles in the Fiesta Bowl.
USC took over at their own thirty-two yard line, and marched down the field, tearing apart the Stanford defense. The drive was capped by a Justin Davis one-yard touchdown run. USC back Javorius Allen had three consecutive carries of 8+ yards on the drive, taking USC from the Stanford 40 yard line to the 15, keying the score.
On the next drive, Stanford drove down the field again, all the way to the thirteen yard line, but a horrible snap by Graham Shuler flew over the head of Ty Montgomery, who was running out of the wildcat. Stanford recovered the ball after losing 16 yards, going all the way back to the USC 29. David Shaw clearly had no faith in kicker Jordan Williamson at this point, as he then chose to punt from the 29 yard-line.
After a Trojan three and out, Stanford once again marched down the field, this time capitalizing on the opportunity, with Patrick Skov taking a two-yard run in for the score, tying the game at seven apiece. With three minutes left in the half, Stanford took the ball all the way to the USC 16 yard line on the back of Kevin Hogan. Hogan threw for 65 yards on the drive, setting up a chip shot 33 yard field goal for Williamson with eleven seconds left to go. Williamson’s field goal gave Stanford a 10-7 lead going into the half. Williamson missed a similar field goal in Stanford’s first drive of the second half, a 26 yarder that inexplicably went wide left. Stanfor was stopped on fourth down in their next drive at the Trojan three yard line. Andre Hedari added a 25-yard field goal with just under a minute left in the third, tying the game up at ten apiece.
Hedari hit a 53-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, giving the Trojans a 13-10 lead with 2:30 left for Stanford to make a comeback. Hogan completed five straight passes, taking Stanford all the way down to the USC 22. After a sack, Hogan was hit while he was attempting to throw by senior linebacker J.R. Tavai, forcing a fumble that USC recovered to seal the win. Hogan played well (22/30, 285 yards), but could not come up clutch in the redzone to give his team the victory. The loss ended the nation’s longest home winning streak for the Cardinal, a 17-game run dating back to 2011. Stanford will need to execute better if they want to succeed this season against a horribly difficult schedule.
Here's the highlights in depth of 13 versus 14
((HT: Pac-12 Network))
Monday, August 25, 2014
BASTA Pac-12: Stanford Football Defensive Season Preview
((HT: BASTA their own selves/Ben Leonard))
The Stanford Cardinal come in to the 2014 season facing the daunting task of Pac-12 and Rose Bowl three-peat. It may be even harder this year, with many stalwarts on the defensive side of the ball from 2013 graduating. It will have to get past third-ranked Oregon in the Pac-12 North once again, although the Cardinal have prevailed in the last two contests. Kevin Hogan’s Stanford team has been kryptonite for Oregon and their high-octane offense. Will David Shaw and the Cardinal be able to overcome their daunting road schedule and reach the promised land, the sparkling new College Football Playoff?
DEFENSE
It all starts with the defense for this Stanford program that plays a brand of hard-nose football envied around the nation. Last season, this team allowed a measly 19.0 points per game, good for tenth best in the country and first in the Pac-12. Will they be able to continue their dominance in 2014?
FRONT SEVEN
The dominant front seven that Stanford employed last season completely shut down the running game, holding opponents to a miniscule 2.9 yards per carry. It should be a force again in 2014.
DEFENSIVE LINE
Stanford will lose defensive ends Josh Mauro and Ben Gardner, stalwarts on the edge. Gardner, one of the Cardinal’s senior leaders, totaled 7.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks despite playing in only eight games, due to a torn pectoral muscle that ended his final college season early. He fell to the seventh round because of the injury, despite exceptional tools. (39.5″ vertical) He will be a tough part to replace.
Aziz Shittu, a junior and former five-star recruit, will work in tandem with fifth-year senior Blake Lueders to fill in for Gardner. Shittu has fallen short of his lofty expectations so far, totaling only five tackles in all of 2013. He has been behind many great players, so the playing time has not been consistently there. He should have blossomed in this newfound opportunity, but failed to pass the scrappy Lueders on the depth chart. Lueders was the superior player last year, collecting 23 tackles, five for loss, and 2.5 sacks. Lueders was a four-star recruit coming out of high school, so he is not exactly a walk-on. He has the experience knowledge of the system under his belt that Shittu lacks, and will likely take most of the snaps at defensive end.
Henry Anderson will start at the other end position. Anderson, an emotional leader for the team and a fifth-year senior, missed the beginning of last year after suffering a knee injury versus Army. He returned in full force, making nineteen tackles in eight games, along with three sacks. He is an Athlon Sports Pre-Season First-Team Pac-12 Honoree, and is on the watch list for numerous awards.
David Parry, another fifth-year senior, will hold down the nose tackle position, a role he has thrived in since being installed as the starter in 2012. The line will not miss a beat in 2014, with boatloads of veteran leadership, as all three are fifth-year seniors. As daunting a task it may seem, the combination of Shittu and Lueders will prove to be competent to replace Gardner, a prominent figure in Stanford’s resurgence as a program.
LINEBACKERS
The Farm will certainly miss the presence of the menacing Shayne Skov, who graduated after his fifth-year senior season. His fire and ruthless play was invaluable for the success of this program, going to four BCS bowls under his leadership. Skov was sixth in Stanford history with 354 tackles in his career, despite only playing three games in 2011 after suffering a torn ACL. His instinct was unparalleled at the college level. One of the most memorable plays was his play to jump the snap against Taylor Kelly and ASU in the Pac-12 championship game.
SKOV’S RELENTLESS STYLE OF PLAY LEAD STANFORD TO DEFEAT OREGON 26-23
Although no one can replicate Skov’s leadership and passion, Blake Martinez will be considered successful if he can mean half of what Skov meant. This is by no means a cheap shot at Martinez, but a testament to the ability of Skov. Martinez has received very little playing time because of Skov’s presence. He has, however, taken advantage of his limited opportunities. He thrived in the Big Game versus Cal, forcing a fumble, picking off Jared Goff and totaling six tackles in a blowout. He has shown Coach Shaw that, when given a chance, will give it his all to help the team win. He also showed up on a big stage in the Pac-12 Championship game, making five tackles in Stanford’s beat down of the Sun Devils. He is an underrated piece in the offense that will surprise many by playing an integral role in the defense in 2014, despite being an unheralded recruit.
A.J. Tarpley, another fifth-year senior, will try to emulate Skov’s role, being the veteran leader at inside linebacker. He clearly feels comfortable filling in for Skov, as he put it, “Look at Coach Shaw. When everyone said, ‘Coach Harbaugh’s leaving, how are you going to replace his excitement, his determination for the game?’ He just said he’s David Shaw. He has his way of doing things,” Tarpley said. “To me, that’s worked out pretty well.”
He was quietly great last year, making 93 hard-fought tackles, good for second on the team. An All Pac-12 Honorable Mention in 2013, Tarpley will continue to improve and gain more recognition as an elite linebacker, as he will take over a team captain spot, and was also honored as an USA Today’s preseason second-team All American. Skov’s name brand may be gone, but Tarpley is fully capable of reproducing Shayne’s production.
At the outside linebacker position, Trent Murphy leaves huge shoes for Kevin Anderson to fill. A consensus All American, his pass rushing presence will be sorely missed. Although he lacked speed and explosion, his motor, instincts, and variety of moves certainly made up for it. He ranked second nationally with 1.07 sacks/game, and fourth in the nation with 1.7 tackles for loss/game.
Anderson, a senior, has proved he can excel under the brightest of lights. He had a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown against Michigan State in the Rose Bowl, and would have had a second for a touchdown had he not dropped it. Anderson, a Palo Alto High School graduate, when asked about replacing Murphy, explained: “I want to emulate him on the field. But at the same time, I can’t think to myself, ‘I have to lead the nation in sacks like Trent did.’”
Anderson finished fourth on the team in tackles for loss, and should continue to improve and mature as a run-stopping outside linebacker. He in no way will be able play up to the pass-rushing caliber of Murphy. Murphy and Anderson are very different styles of player, as Anderson is built to stop the run.
James Vaughters was quietly brilliant in 2013, and will return even stronger in 2014. At 6’2″ and 258 pounds, he is an intimidating force for Stanford’s front seven. He was a major contributor in the landmark win versus Oregon, forcing a fumble, sacking Marcus Mariota, and adding four tackles. As a former four-star recruit, he will continue to grow, especially with gaining more experience at the outside linebacker position. He played on the inside in high school, and also played there in 2012.
SECONDARY
The secondary simply could not measure up to the vaunted front seven in 2013, mostly because teams would run an Air-Raid offense to avoid running into Shayne Skov and Trent Murphy.
The pass defense ranked eighth in the Pac-12 in total passing defense, but was tenth (behind only Cal and WSU) in opponent’s completion percentage (62.1%)
Stanford returns four out of five starters out of the secondary from 2013, the exception being Ed Reynolds. Reynolds made the curious decision to leave for the NFL Draft despite having another year of eligibility and having a down year (in terms of interceptions) in 2013. He was projected to be a sixth or seventh round pick, yet still left, and was taken in the fifth round by Philadelphia. A year being one yard short of setting the NCAA single-season record for interception return yards with 301 and a school record three returns for touchdowns, he only had one interception in 2013. He did improve upon his tackling(86 vs. 47), but still struggled to make plays in the open field.
Kyle Olugbode will replace Reynolds at free safety. He played in all fourteen games last year, totaling thirteen tackles in limited time. He may go through some growing pains early, as he has simply just not had the experience that Reynolds had.
The cornerback tandem of Alex Carter and Wayne Lyons will continue to lock down opposing receivers. Carter missed spring practice with a hip injury, but will be ready to go for the opener Saturday against UC Davis. His absence at practice created more opportunities to groom backups Ra’Chard Pippens and Ronnie Harris to play in the future. Carter was a four-star recruit, was lauded by Coach David Shaw:
“Quick, fast, explosive, aggressive, tough, great ball skills, he’s grown every single week and he’s still growing,” Shaw said. “He’s kind of what you want out there as a corner…. He’s just got more size and weight than those other guys. When he comes up and hits you, he lets you feel it.”
Lyons, also a four-star recruit, came into his own in 2013. He was fifth on the team in tackles with 69, and had two clutch fourth quarter interceptions to seal the game versus Notre Dame. He comes into 2014 being pegged as a third team preseason All-Pac 12 corner by Phil Steele.
LYONS HAD A LOT TO CELEBRATE IN 2013
Jordan Richards will return as the unquestioned leader of the secondary at strong safety. As a consensus preseason All American, it will be upon his shoulders to make up for the loss of Reynolds. He is up to the task, as he was a second team All Pac-12 player in 2013, according to Phil Steele. He is tough against the run, yet also excels in pass coverage. He will be playing on Sundays too soon for Stanford’s taste.
OVERVIEW: David Shaw’s abundant wealth of talent and exceptional scheming should be enough to make up for the loss of many senior leaders. However, road games versus #3 Oregon, #25 Washington, #7 UCLA, #18 Arizona State, and #17 Notre Dame will provide ample opportunities for slip ups. The daunting schedule, the toughest in the country, will be tough to overcome, especially given the way this team has played on the road in recent years.
Here's head coach David Shaw addressing the team's challenges for the season...
((HT: GoStanford.com/Pac-12 Network))
The Stanford Cardinal come in to the 2014 season facing the daunting task of Pac-12 and Rose Bowl three-peat. It may be even harder this year, with many stalwarts on the defensive side of the ball from 2013 graduating. It will have to get past third-ranked Oregon in the Pac-12 North once again, although the Cardinal have prevailed in the last two contests. Kevin Hogan’s Stanford team has been kryptonite for Oregon and their high-octane offense. Will David Shaw and the Cardinal be able to overcome their daunting road schedule and reach the promised land, the sparkling new College Football Playoff?
DEFENSE
It all starts with the defense for this Stanford program that plays a brand of hard-nose football envied around the nation. Last season, this team allowed a measly 19.0 points per game, good for tenth best in the country and first in the Pac-12. Will they be able to continue their dominance in 2014?
FRONT SEVEN
The dominant front seven that Stanford employed last season completely shut down the running game, holding opponents to a miniscule 2.9 yards per carry. It should be a force again in 2014.
DEFENSIVE LINE
Stanford will lose defensive ends Josh Mauro and Ben Gardner, stalwarts on the edge. Gardner, one of the Cardinal’s senior leaders, totaled 7.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks despite playing in only eight games, due to a torn pectoral muscle that ended his final college season early. He fell to the seventh round because of the injury, despite exceptional tools. (39.5″ vertical) He will be a tough part to replace.
Aziz Shittu, a junior and former five-star recruit, will work in tandem with fifth-year senior Blake Lueders to fill in for Gardner. Shittu has fallen short of his lofty expectations so far, totaling only five tackles in all of 2013. He has been behind many great players, so the playing time has not been consistently there. He should have blossomed in this newfound opportunity, but failed to pass the scrappy Lueders on the depth chart. Lueders was the superior player last year, collecting 23 tackles, five for loss, and 2.5 sacks. Lueders was a four-star recruit coming out of high school, so he is not exactly a walk-on. He has the experience knowledge of the system under his belt that Shittu lacks, and will likely take most of the snaps at defensive end.
Henry Anderson will start at the other end position. Anderson, an emotional leader for the team and a fifth-year senior, missed the beginning of last year after suffering a knee injury versus Army. He returned in full force, making nineteen tackles in eight games, along with three sacks. He is an Athlon Sports Pre-Season First-Team Pac-12 Honoree, and is on the watch list for numerous awards.
David Parry, another fifth-year senior, will hold down the nose tackle position, a role he has thrived in since being installed as the starter in 2012. The line will not miss a beat in 2014, with boatloads of veteran leadership, as all three are fifth-year seniors. As daunting a task it may seem, the combination of Shittu and Lueders will prove to be competent to replace Gardner, a prominent figure in Stanford’s resurgence as a program.
LINEBACKERS
The Farm will certainly miss the presence of the menacing Shayne Skov, who graduated after his fifth-year senior season. His fire and ruthless play was invaluable for the success of this program, going to four BCS bowls under his leadership. Skov was sixth in Stanford history with 354 tackles in his career, despite only playing three games in 2011 after suffering a torn ACL. His instinct was unparalleled at the college level. One of the most memorable plays was his play to jump the snap against Taylor Kelly and ASU in the Pac-12 championship game.
SKOV’S RELENTLESS STYLE OF PLAY LEAD STANFORD TO DEFEAT OREGON 26-23
Although no one can replicate Skov’s leadership and passion, Blake Martinez will be considered successful if he can mean half of what Skov meant. This is by no means a cheap shot at Martinez, but a testament to the ability of Skov. Martinez has received very little playing time because of Skov’s presence. He has, however, taken advantage of his limited opportunities. He thrived in the Big Game versus Cal, forcing a fumble, picking off Jared Goff and totaling six tackles in a blowout. He has shown Coach Shaw that, when given a chance, will give it his all to help the team win. He also showed up on a big stage in the Pac-12 Championship game, making five tackles in Stanford’s beat down of the Sun Devils. He is an underrated piece in the offense that will surprise many by playing an integral role in the defense in 2014, despite being an unheralded recruit.
A.J. Tarpley, another fifth-year senior, will try to emulate Skov’s role, being the veteran leader at inside linebacker. He clearly feels comfortable filling in for Skov, as he put it, “Look at Coach Shaw. When everyone said, ‘Coach Harbaugh’s leaving, how are you going to replace his excitement, his determination for the game?’ He just said he’s David Shaw. He has his way of doing things,” Tarpley said. “To me, that’s worked out pretty well.”
He was quietly great last year, making 93 hard-fought tackles, good for second on the team. An All Pac-12 Honorable Mention in 2013, Tarpley will continue to improve and gain more recognition as an elite linebacker, as he will take over a team captain spot, and was also honored as an USA Today’s preseason second-team All American. Skov’s name brand may be gone, but Tarpley is fully capable of reproducing Shayne’s production.
At the outside linebacker position, Trent Murphy leaves huge shoes for Kevin Anderson to fill. A consensus All American, his pass rushing presence will be sorely missed. Although he lacked speed and explosion, his motor, instincts, and variety of moves certainly made up for it. He ranked second nationally with 1.07 sacks/game, and fourth in the nation with 1.7 tackles for loss/game.
Anderson, a senior, has proved he can excel under the brightest of lights. He had a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown against Michigan State in the Rose Bowl, and would have had a second for a touchdown had he not dropped it. Anderson, a Palo Alto High School graduate, when asked about replacing Murphy, explained: “I want to emulate him on the field. But at the same time, I can’t think to myself, ‘I have to lead the nation in sacks like Trent did.’”
Anderson finished fourth on the team in tackles for loss, and should continue to improve and mature as a run-stopping outside linebacker. He in no way will be able play up to the pass-rushing caliber of Murphy. Murphy and Anderson are very different styles of player, as Anderson is built to stop the run.
James Vaughters was quietly brilliant in 2013, and will return even stronger in 2014. At 6’2″ and 258 pounds, he is an intimidating force for Stanford’s front seven. He was a major contributor in the landmark win versus Oregon, forcing a fumble, sacking Marcus Mariota, and adding four tackles. As a former four-star recruit, he will continue to grow, especially with gaining more experience at the outside linebacker position. He played on the inside in high school, and also played there in 2012.
SECONDARY
The secondary simply could not measure up to the vaunted front seven in 2013, mostly because teams would run an Air-Raid offense to avoid running into Shayne Skov and Trent Murphy.
The pass defense ranked eighth in the Pac-12 in total passing defense, but was tenth (behind only Cal and WSU) in opponent’s completion percentage (62.1%)
Stanford returns four out of five starters out of the secondary from 2013, the exception being Ed Reynolds. Reynolds made the curious decision to leave for the NFL Draft despite having another year of eligibility and having a down year (in terms of interceptions) in 2013. He was projected to be a sixth or seventh round pick, yet still left, and was taken in the fifth round by Philadelphia. A year being one yard short of setting the NCAA single-season record for interception return yards with 301 and a school record three returns for touchdowns, he only had one interception in 2013. He did improve upon his tackling(86 vs. 47), but still struggled to make plays in the open field.
Kyle Olugbode will replace Reynolds at free safety. He played in all fourteen games last year, totaling thirteen tackles in limited time. He may go through some growing pains early, as he has simply just not had the experience that Reynolds had.
The cornerback tandem of Alex Carter and Wayne Lyons will continue to lock down opposing receivers. Carter missed spring practice with a hip injury, but will be ready to go for the opener Saturday against UC Davis. His absence at practice created more opportunities to groom backups Ra’Chard Pippens and Ronnie Harris to play in the future. Carter was a four-star recruit, was lauded by Coach David Shaw:
“Quick, fast, explosive, aggressive, tough, great ball skills, he’s grown every single week and he’s still growing,” Shaw said. “He’s kind of what you want out there as a corner…. He’s just got more size and weight than those other guys. When he comes up and hits you, he lets you feel it.”
Lyons, also a four-star recruit, came into his own in 2013. He was fifth on the team in tackles with 69, and had two clutch fourth quarter interceptions to seal the game versus Notre Dame. He comes into 2014 being pegged as a third team preseason All-Pac 12 corner by Phil Steele.
LYONS HAD A LOT TO CELEBRATE IN 2013
Jordan Richards will return as the unquestioned leader of the secondary at strong safety. As a consensus preseason All American, it will be upon his shoulders to make up for the loss of Reynolds. He is up to the task, as he was a second team All Pac-12 player in 2013, according to Phil Steele. He is tough against the run, yet also excels in pass coverage. He will be playing on Sundays too soon for Stanford’s taste.
OVERVIEW: David Shaw’s abundant wealth of talent and exceptional scheming should be enough to make up for the loss of many senior leaders. However, road games versus #3 Oregon, #25 Washington, #7 UCLA, #18 Arizona State, and #17 Notre Dame will provide ample opportunities for slip ups. The daunting schedule, the toughest in the country, will be tough to overcome, especially given the way this team has played on the road in recent years.
Here's head coach David Shaw addressing the team's challenges for the season...
((HT: GoStanford.com/Pac-12 Network))
Friday, November 8, 2013
Stanford's Statement, We Are Still Hanging Around, Cardinal Defeats Ducks 26-20
Florida State fans are rejoicing. Number 2 Oregon has a loss.
In a game that had the west coast buzzing Stanford raced out to a 26-0 lead until the middle of the fourth quarter. Oregon rallied as Marcus Mariota threw two touchdown passes but the rally fell short.
Stanford defeats Oregon 26-20.
"Our guys played extremely well today." Stanford head coach David Shaw said. "The fact that we've won two in a row against these guys, credit to our players, the coaches and preparation. Bottom line, they didn't give it to us. They didn't give it to us. We had to play our game and finish the game at the end, and we did."
"Our guys competed, no question." Oregon head coach Mark Helfrich said.
The Ducks defense couldn't figure out how to stop Stanford running back Tyler Gaffney who had a school record 45 carries. Gaffney ended up with 157 yards rushing and a touchdown.
"Tyler Gaffney ran the ball tonight the way running back backs are supposed to run the ball in this game of football." Shaw said.
"Oregon's really good at filling in with their safeties, with their backside backers." Gaffney said. "It came down to lowering the shoulder and hoped for the best."
Marcus Mariota ended up 20-34 for 250 yards and two touchdowns. Mariota admits he banged up, the knee brace he wore against Stanford is evident of that but he's not making excuses.
"I've got to learn to play with it." Mariota said. "I've never really played with a knee brace before, so that's something that I've been doing in practice and getting used to."
With the Oregon loss Florida State sits in good shape to be Alabama's opponents in the BCS National Championship Game.
That is if the season ended today.
In a game that had the west coast buzzing Stanford raced out to a 26-0 lead until the middle of the fourth quarter. Oregon rallied as Marcus Mariota threw two touchdown passes but the rally fell short.
Stanford defeats Oregon 26-20.
"Our guys played extremely well today." Stanford head coach David Shaw said. "The fact that we've won two in a row against these guys, credit to our players, the coaches and preparation. Bottom line, they didn't give it to us. They didn't give it to us. We had to play our game and finish the game at the end, and we did."
"Our guys competed, no question." Oregon head coach Mark Helfrich said.
The Ducks defense couldn't figure out how to stop Stanford running back Tyler Gaffney who had a school record 45 carries. Gaffney ended up with 157 yards rushing and a touchdown.
"Tyler Gaffney ran the ball tonight the way running back backs are supposed to run the ball in this game of football." Shaw said.
"Oregon's really good at filling in with their safeties, with their backside backers." Gaffney said. "It came down to lowering the shoulder and hoped for the best."
Marcus Mariota ended up 20-34 for 250 yards and two touchdowns. Mariota admits he banged up, the knee brace he wore against Stanford is evident of that but he's not making excuses.
"I've got to learn to play with it." Mariota said. "I've never really played with a knee brace before, so that's something that I've been doing in practice and getting used to."
With the Oregon loss Florida State sits in good shape to be Alabama's opponents in the BCS National Championship Game.
That is if the season ended today.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Stanford's David Shaw vs. Washington's Steve Sarkasian: Who ya got?
Sounds like a little chirping going on from the suddenly powerful Pac 12 football conference.On the heels of Stanford holding off Washington, 31-28 this past Saturday, a war-of-words has broken out between Stanford head coach David Shaw and Washington coach Steve Sarkasian.
It started after the game when Sarkasian accused Stanford of faking injuries to slow down the Husky offense. He told local radio station KJR; "Their defensive line coach was telling them to sit down" "I guess that's how we play here at Stanford, so we'll have to prepare for that next time. At some point, we'll get repaid for it. That never serves a purpose for us, and we'll never do that"Ironically, Washington had an assistant suspended in 2010, for doing just that. Tosh Lupoi, then an assistant at Washington sat for a game after having players fake injuries.
Shaw fired back Tuesday on his teleconference saying "We don't fake injuries and never will. I don't teach it, don't condone it, don't allow it. I don't care what Steve Sarkasian thinks he saw. We don't do it. We didn't do it vs. Oregon, so why would we do it against UW? We are one of the most respected programs in the country and I won't put that on the line just to beat Washington."
Oooohhh....slap...
Of course Stanford is not beyond reproach either. The Cardinal, according to many, did exactly what they are being accused of in 2010, when Shaw was the offensive coordinator, against Oregon.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Catholics Vs. Conifers: Did Irish Really Win...???
((HT: Pac-12 Conference/NBC))
The question at the beginning of the day was: Are the Irish BCS-back...???
The question at the end of the day is: Are the Irish as good as their record indicates...???
Answer One: Probably by default...
Answer Two: Meh, maybe... the jury is still out...
By the time overtime was over and Notre Dame won by seven, there were more discussions over the play at the end of the game where Stanford either scored and got jobbed or didn't score on a great, goal line stand...
Here's the play at the end of the game...
Examine for yourself...
The Irish are now 6-0 for the first time since 2002...
"I didn't get a view of the last play," Stanford head coach David Shaw said after the game. "Stepfan (Taylor) swore to me that he got in. That he put the ball over the goal line on the second effort. The officials looked at it and they said he didn't get in, so he didn't get in."
Irish coach Brian Kelly called it a classic goal line stand...
Of course he did...
Stanford drops to 4-2...
So, faithful reader... did Taylor score or was it a classic goal line stand...???
The question at the beginning of the day was: Are the Irish BCS-back...???
The question at the end of the day is: Are the Irish as good as their record indicates...???
Answer One: Probably by default...
Answer Two: Meh, maybe... the jury is still out...
By the time overtime was over and Notre Dame won by seven, there were more discussions over the play at the end of the game where Stanford either scored and got jobbed or didn't score on a great, goal line stand...
Here's the play at the end of the game...
Examine for yourself...
The Irish are now 6-0 for the first time since 2002...
"I didn't get a view of the last play," Stanford head coach David Shaw said after the game. "Stepfan (Taylor) swore to me that he got in. That he put the ball over the goal line on the second effort. The officials looked at it and they said he didn't get in, so he didn't get in."
Irish coach Brian Kelly called it a classic goal line stand...
Of course he did...
Stanford drops to 4-2...
So, faithful reader... did Taylor score or was it a classic goal line stand...???
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