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 Stanford. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stanford. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Sunday, December 7, 2014
BASTA: A Way Too Early Look at the Foster Farms Bowl
((HT: BASTA/Ben Leonard))
Stanford was officially given a berth in the Foster Farms Bowl on Sunday, which has previously been dubbed the Emerald Bowl, the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, and the Fight Hunger Bowl. It was held at AT&T Park for all of its previous existence, and now is being moved to Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. The bowl will remain at the venue for at least the next six years, after the Big Ten and Pac-12 Conferences signed a pact for the aforementioned time. The game will pit the Cardinal and the Maryland Terrapins on December 30th, a foe that Stanford has never played.
Both teams come into the bowl game with identical 7-5 records, although they can not be treated as equal. Maryland, for some reason, is geographically “close enough” to fellow Big Ten schools to become affiliated with the inferior conference. Some of their marquee victories include Syracuse, Penn State, and Iowa, not exactly world-beaters. Stanford would be the clear favorite in this matchup, independent from the fact that the bowl amounts to a home game.
The Cardinal will come into the game with tremendous confidence, after blowing out Cal and #9 UCLA in consecutive weeks. They also are much more physically talented than their record indicates, as 2014 was a season of gross underachievement for a team with one of the best defenses in the country. Maryland is particularly weak running the ball, as they are 106th in the nation in rushing yards per game. They are comparatively not as terrible through the air, but are still a modest 74th in the country in passing yards per game. Stanford should be able to bottle up the Terp’s poor rushing, and key in on shifty quarterback C.J. Brown. Brown is somewhat of a dual-threat quarterback, who has been mediocre through the air, but excels at running the ball and improvising. He is a sixth-year senior, stemming from a medical redshirt that he obtained after tearing his ACL in 2012, and brings experience to the table for the Terps. Despite Brown’s experience, the Cardinal defense will likely be too much for an underwhelming Maryland offense.
Stanford’s offense also holds a major advantage over Maryland’s defense. Maryland has been dreadful against the run, allowing over two hundred yards on the ground per game. Their secondary has been similarly mediocre, 80th in the nation in allowing 236.5 yards per game through the air. Quarterback Kevin Hogan and Stanford’s offense finally found its stride last Saturday against UCLA, a lethal combination of accurate passing and establishing the running game. Stanford controlled the game so well that Hogan only had to throw three passes in the second half. UCLA’s defense was no joke, second in the Pac-12 in total defense heading into the game, yet Stanford had their best game of the season against the unit. Once a weakness, Stanford’s offense should now be considered a strength, if Hogan continues to play at a high level. Stanford fans should hope that he does, which would help both in the short and the long term. Hogan has one more year of eligibility remaining, but could elect to spurn Palo Alto for the NFL with a quality performance in the Foster Farms Bowl. Stanford fans would certainly welcome his departure, as highly-touted recruits Keller Chryst and Ryan Burns would get to duke it out for the starting job.
Stanford was officially given a berth in the Foster Farms Bowl on Sunday, which has previously been dubbed the Emerald Bowl, the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, and the Fight Hunger Bowl. It was held at AT&T Park for all of its previous existence, and now is being moved to Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. The bowl will remain at the venue for at least the next six years, after the Big Ten and Pac-12 Conferences signed a pact for the aforementioned time. The game will pit the Cardinal and the Maryland Terrapins on December 30th, a foe that Stanford has never played.
Both teams come into the bowl game with identical 7-5 records, although they can not be treated as equal. Maryland, for some reason, is geographically “close enough” to fellow Big Ten schools to become affiliated with the inferior conference. Some of their marquee victories include Syracuse, Penn State, and Iowa, not exactly world-beaters. Stanford would be the clear favorite in this matchup, independent from the fact that the bowl amounts to a home game.
The Cardinal will come into the game with tremendous confidence, after blowing out Cal and #9 UCLA in consecutive weeks. They also are much more physically talented than their record indicates, as 2014 was a season of gross underachievement for a team with one of the best defenses in the country. Maryland is particularly weak running the ball, as they are 106th in the nation in rushing yards per game. They are comparatively not as terrible through the air, but are still a modest 74th in the country in passing yards per game. Stanford should be able to bottle up the Terp’s poor rushing, and key in on shifty quarterback C.J. Brown. Brown is somewhat of a dual-threat quarterback, who has been mediocre through the air, but excels at running the ball and improvising. He is a sixth-year senior, stemming from a medical redshirt that he obtained after tearing his ACL in 2012, and brings experience to the table for the Terps. Despite Brown’s experience, the Cardinal defense will likely be too much for an underwhelming Maryland offense.
Stanford’s offense also holds a major advantage over Maryland’s defense. Maryland has been dreadful against the run, allowing over two hundred yards on the ground per game. Their secondary has been similarly mediocre, 80th in the nation in allowing 236.5 yards per game through the air. Quarterback Kevin Hogan and Stanford’s offense finally found its stride last Saturday against UCLA, a lethal combination of accurate passing and establishing the running game. Stanford controlled the game so well that Hogan only had to throw three passes in the second half. UCLA’s defense was no joke, second in the Pac-12 in total defense heading into the game, yet Stanford had their best game of the season against the unit. Once a weakness, Stanford’s offense should now be considered a strength, if Hogan continues to play at a high level. Stanford fans should hope that he does, which would help both in the short and the long term. Hogan has one more year of eligibility remaining, but could elect to spurn Palo Alto for the NFL with a quality performance in the Foster Farms Bowl. Stanford fans would certainly welcome his departure, as highly-touted recruits Keller Chryst and Ryan Burns would get to duke it out for the starting job.
Sunday, November 2, 2014
BASTA: Oregon Beats Stanford At Their Own Game
((HT: BASTA/Ben Leonard))
Despite a dominant start by Oregon that left the Cardinal down 14-3 mid-way through the first quarter, Stanford charged back and pulled within striking distance. However, the Ducks and Heisman Trophy favorite Marcus Mariota made plays when the Cardinal could not, making the game an absolute laugher. Oregon gave Stanford a dose of their own medicine, dominating them on the ground behind a healthy (finally) offensive front. The Ducks outrushed Stanford 267-131, and were too much for a usually-dominant unit. The Ducks did not let up with the score out of hand until midway through the fourth, clearly releasing two years of pent-up frustration in a 46-16 blowout. Oregon was the first team to score more than thirty points against Stanford since Arizona in 2012.
The Ducks took the ball on the opening kickoff, and wasted no time in marching down the field, going seventy-five yards in just over four minutes. Mariota burned Stanford on the ground and through the air, totaling twenty-seven yards rushing and capping the drive with a six-yard touchdown pass. Stanford’s depleted front seven offered little resistance, letting the star quarterback have his way. Stanford felt the absences of nose tackle David Parry and end Aziz Shittu, key parts of the previously first-ranked defense nationwide. This drive was a microcosm of the rest of the game; Oregon’s speed and physicality brutalized the Cardinal.
Kevin Hogan quite possibly had the best half of his career in the first half, completing thirteen of his seventeen attempts for 162 yards and a touchdown, but he could not finish drives, including the first drive of the game. He was not plagued many of his customary miscues, and was very accurate and collected. He wasted great field position stemming from a Ty Montgomery return, forcing Jordan Williamson into attempting a forty-seven yard field goal, which he nailed. Autzen Stadium has been kind to the fifth-year senior, who hit the redemptive game-winning field goal in 2012. Oregon answered with an even quicker score, taking just over two minutes to go seventy-five yards for the touchdown, a twenty-two yard run in which Mariota escaped pressure and ran in untouched to take the 14-3 lead. Hogan played better on the next drive, but the end result was the same, another field goal to cut the lead to 14-6. The early deficit left Stanford on its heels, forced to play catch-up against the high-tempo Ducks, not a position the Cardinal are built to succeed in.
The Cardinal’s defense let Mariota have all day to throw, and they paid for it, falling behind 24-6 midway into the second quarter. With their backs to the wall, Stanford mustered an excellent seventy-five yard drive for a touchdown, capped by a one-yard touchdown from Patrick Skov to cut the lead to 24-13. Hogan completed eight passes for fifty-five yards on the drive, utilizing screens and sideline passes to his speedy, physical receivers, including Devon Cajuste. Cajuste had a field day against the undersized Oregon secondary, snagging five catches for 115 yards. Stanford went into the half with a chance to steal a win from the Ducks despite only scoring one touchdown in four trips inside the thirty-five yard line.
Stanford came out of the locker room energized, taking the ball all the way down to Oregon’s thirty-two yard line. Hogan ruined a seemingly promising drive with an ugly interception, throwing into double coverage on a pass intended for Devon Cajuste, handing the ball to the potential Heisman Trophy winner at his own one yard line. He had become overly reliant on Cajuste, and missed multiple open options shorter on the right side. Hogan’s blunder ultimately did not cost the Cardinal too much, as Alex Carter snagged an interception on the ensuing drive. Had Mariota thrown outside to his receiver, Carter would have had no play, but Mariota threw it right into Carter’s hands for an easy pick at Oregon’s forty yard-line.
Down 24-13, the ensuing drive could have been a defining moment for the embattled Hogan. Instead, it was just another typical Stanford drive, stalling in the red zone. A holding call against the undersized, overmatched center Graham Shuler contributed to this, leaving Stanford with a first and twenty at Oregon’s twenty-six yard line. Shaw also made a questionable decision on fourth and two at the eight, electing to take a field goal. Stanford needed a catalyst, and a first down would have been. A score would have cut the lead to four points, yet Shaw stayed with his conservative ways, destroying any potential momentum, despite cutting the lead to 24-16.
The end of the third and fourth quarters were another story for the Cardinal. After another Ducks’ touchdown, Kevin Hogan was stripped on an apparently promising drive, giving the Ducks the ball at the forty and the victory. Tony Washington stripped the ball from Hogan on a strong man’s play; ball security was not an issue for Hogan, but it killed any waning hope. Marcus Mariota took advantage of the field position, running in for two more touchdowns to make the game a rout. Mariota finished with 258 yards and two touchdowns through the air, and eighty-five yards and two scores on the ground.
Here's the highlights as proof...
((HT: Pac-12/FoxCFB))
Stanford’s ineptitude on both the offensive and defensive lines is concerning going forward. Oregon’s offensive line was a perceived weakness, yet there was no “Party in the Backfield,” as the Cardinal put almost no pressure on Mariota, and sacked him just once. With the loss, Stanford falls to 5-4 and loses all realistic hope for a Pac-12 North title (The Cardinal would have to win out and Oregon would have to lose out). The loss was their most lopsided since 2007, in which they went 1-11 and fell 41-3 to ASU. Oregon showed no weaknesses, and barring injuries, their path to the College Football Playoff should be relatively easy. They pushed the Cardinal around on both sides, imposing their will on a team that had previously established such an identity.
Despite a dominant start by Oregon that left the Cardinal down 14-3 mid-way through the first quarter, Stanford charged back and pulled within striking distance. However, the Ducks and Heisman Trophy favorite Marcus Mariota made plays when the Cardinal could not, making the game an absolute laugher. Oregon gave Stanford a dose of their own medicine, dominating them on the ground behind a healthy (finally) offensive front. The Ducks outrushed Stanford 267-131, and were too much for a usually-dominant unit. The Ducks did not let up with the score out of hand until midway through the fourth, clearly releasing two years of pent-up frustration in a 46-16 blowout. Oregon was the first team to score more than thirty points against Stanford since Arizona in 2012.
The Ducks took the ball on the opening kickoff, and wasted no time in marching down the field, going seventy-five yards in just over four minutes. Mariota burned Stanford on the ground and through the air, totaling twenty-seven yards rushing and capping the drive with a six-yard touchdown pass. Stanford’s depleted front seven offered little resistance, letting the star quarterback have his way. Stanford felt the absences of nose tackle David Parry and end Aziz Shittu, key parts of the previously first-ranked defense nationwide. This drive was a microcosm of the rest of the game; Oregon’s speed and physicality brutalized the Cardinal.
Kevin Hogan quite possibly had the best half of his career in the first half, completing thirteen of his seventeen attempts for 162 yards and a touchdown, but he could not finish drives, including the first drive of the game. He was not plagued many of his customary miscues, and was very accurate and collected. He wasted great field position stemming from a Ty Montgomery return, forcing Jordan Williamson into attempting a forty-seven yard field goal, which he nailed. Autzen Stadium has been kind to the fifth-year senior, who hit the redemptive game-winning field goal in 2012. Oregon answered with an even quicker score, taking just over two minutes to go seventy-five yards for the touchdown, a twenty-two yard run in which Mariota escaped pressure and ran in untouched to take the 14-3 lead. Hogan played better on the next drive, but the end result was the same, another field goal to cut the lead to 14-6. The early deficit left Stanford on its heels, forced to play catch-up against the high-tempo Ducks, not a position the Cardinal are built to succeed in.
The Cardinal’s defense let Mariota have all day to throw, and they paid for it, falling behind 24-6 midway into the second quarter. With their backs to the wall, Stanford mustered an excellent seventy-five yard drive for a touchdown, capped by a one-yard touchdown from Patrick Skov to cut the lead to 24-13. Hogan completed eight passes for fifty-five yards on the drive, utilizing screens and sideline passes to his speedy, physical receivers, including Devon Cajuste. Cajuste had a field day against the undersized Oregon secondary, snagging five catches for 115 yards. Stanford went into the half with a chance to steal a win from the Ducks despite only scoring one touchdown in four trips inside the thirty-five yard line.
Stanford came out of the locker room energized, taking the ball all the way down to Oregon’s thirty-two yard line. Hogan ruined a seemingly promising drive with an ugly interception, throwing into double coverage on a pass intended for Devon Cajuste, handing the ball to the potential Heisman Trophy winner at his own one yard line. He had become overly reliant on Cajuste, and missed multiple open options shorter on the right side. Hogan’s blunder ultimately did not cost the Cardinal too much, as Alex Carter snagged an interception on the ensuing drive. Had Mariota thrown outside to his receiver, Carter would have had no play, but Mariota threw it right into Carter’s hands for an easy pick at Oregon’s forty yard-line.
Down 24-13, the ensuing drive could have been a defining moment for the embattled Hogan. Instead, it was just another typical Stanford drive, stalling in the red zone. A holding call against the undersized, overmatched center Graham Shuler contributed to this, leaving Stanford with a first and twenty at Oregon’s twenty-six yard line. Shaw also made a questionable decision on fourth and two at the eight, electing to take a field goal. Stanford needed a catalyst, and a first down would have been. A score would have cut the lead to four points, yet Shaw stayed with his conservative ways, destroying any potential momentum, despite cutting the lead to 24-16.
The end of the third and fourth quarters were another story for the Cardinal. After another Ducks’ touchdown, Kevin Hogan was stripped on an apparently promising drive, giving the Ducks the ball at the forty and the victory. Tony Washington stripped the ball from Hogan on a strong man’s play; ball security was not an issue for Hogan, but it killed any waning hope. Marcus Mariota took advantage of the field position, running in for two more touchdowns to make the game a rout. Mariota finished with 258 yards and two touchdowns through the air, and eighty-five yards and two scores on the ground.
Here's the highlights as proof...
((HT: Pac-12/FoxCFB))
Stanford’s ineptitude on both the offensive and defensive lines is concerning going forward. Oregon’s offensive line was a perceived weakness, yet there was no “Party in the Backfield,” as the Cardinal put almost no pressure on Mariota, and sacked him just once. With the loss, Stanford falls to 5-4 and loses all realistic hope for a Pac-12 North title (The Cardinal would have to win out and Oregon would have to lose out). The loss was their most lopsided since 2007, in which they went 1-11 and fell 41-3 to ASU. Oregon showed no weaknesses, and barring injuries, their path to the College Football Playoff should be relatively easy. They pushed the Cardinal around on both sides, imposing their will on a team that had previously established such an identity.
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.
Monday, September 8, 2014
USC AD Pat Haden Fined $25K for Sideline Incident
((ht: cbssports.com))
So maybe someone will act against USC Athletic Director Pat Haden after he inexplicably showed up on the sideline of the USC/Stanford game Saturday and began arguing with the referees.
The incident was apparently prompted by his coach Steve Sarkasian who had Haden "texted" to come down to the field. Which is to say the least a bit odd.
Monday afternoon, Pac-12 Commisioner Larry Scott announced Haden (USC) will be fined $25K for the issue. Haden also "voluntarily" banned himself from the sidelines for at least 2-games.
Huh?
Anyway, all parties say this will have no impact on Haden's standing with the CFB Playoff committee nor should it. We, for now will have to buy the story given that Haden was responding to his coach's request. And the coach says he shouldn't have done it.
But it begs the question: Why would you (Sarkasian) need an AD to fight a fight that you picked and should fight yourself?
Just wondering'...
So maybe someone will act against USC Athletic Director Pat Haden after he inexplicably showed up on the sideline of the USC/Stanford game Saturday and began arguing with the referees.
The incident was apparently prompted by his coach Steve Sarkasian who had Haden "texted" to come down to the field. Which is to say the least a bit odd.
Monday afternoon, Pac-12 Commisioner Larry Scott announced Haden (USC) will be fined $25K for the issue. Haden also "voluntarily" banned himself from the sidelines for at least 2-games.
Huh?
Anyway, all parties say this will have no impact on Haden's standing with the CFB Playoff committee nor should it. We, for now will have to buy the story given that Haden was responding to his coach's request. And the coach says he shouldn't have done it.
But it begs the question: Why would you (Sarkasian) need an AD to fight a fight that you picked and should fight yourself?
Just wondering'...
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))
Cupcake Saturday: CFB World Flips Out Over Pat Haden on USC Sidelines
One of the few alleged controversies in Saturday's slate of crappy college football games came from the USC vs. Stanford game, a game eventually won by the Trojans 13-10.
The debate, and it is a loud one, began when Haden came down from his box at the end of the 3rd quarter.
The reason for the alleged controversy: A segment of the sportswriting public have raised the question of Haden's objectivity as a member of "College Football Playoff Committee".
To which we say: You just noticed this now?
Haden told ESPN he came down to the field after receiving a text from someone on his compliance staff stating the Trojans coach Steve Sarkasian wanted to speak to him.
Why Sarkasian had to talk to Haden late in a close game is a bit of a mystery, but that's the story.
Cameras showed Haden come down and start appear to start questioning the referees about a unsportsmanlike conduct call against the coach.
Which again begs the question, why would Sarkasian need his Athletic Director to defend his honor?
Anyway, the holier than thou voices of concern are now popping up through sportswriters who say Haden can't be neutral when in his committee role. The Playoff Committee is comprised of 13 people who will be the final voice in deciding which 4-teams make this years College Football playoff.
Haden's on-field involvement wasn't illegal. Though technically the text message is. However, per the NCAA, there's no real penalty that can be levied. Haden's appearance was just plain weird.
But the whole implication about objectivity is laughable. Very laughable. Yeah, sure the "Playoff Committee" members who have a vested interested in a potential playoff team have to recuse themselves. But anyone who believes there aren't biases brought into that room is completely ignorant.
While the whole "Committee" system isn't perfect, it's a heck of a lot better than the alleged "Computers" that decided things previously. And it's 1,000 times more effective than the idiotic sportswriters voting ever was.
We offer this final word on Haden's goofiness. Deal with it. Stop whining Sportswriters, this is the system and world we now live in. It's far from perfect, it will NEVER be perfect. But claiming an Athletic Director would be totally biased against everyone but his team because he came down to argue with refs at a game....is just plain idiotic...
Haden explains himself to ESPN:
The debate, and it is a loud one, began when Haden came down from his box at the end of the 3rd quarter.
The reason for the alleged controversy: A segment of the sportswriting public have raised the question of Haden's objectivity as a member of "College Football Playoff Committee".
To which we say: You just noticed this now?
Haden told ESPN he came down to the field after receiving a text from someone on his compliance staff stating the Trojans coach Steve Sarkasian wanted to speak to him.
Why Sarkasian had to talk to Haden late in a close game is a bit of a mystery, but that's the story.
Cameras showed Haden come down and start appear to start questioning the referees about a unsportsmanlike conduct call against the coach.
Which again begs the question, why would Sarkasian need his Athletic Director to defend his honor?
Anyway, the holier than thou voices of concern are now popping up through sportswriters who say Haden can't be neutral when in his committee role. The Playoff Committee is comprised of 13 people who will be the final voice in deciding which 4-teams make this years College Football playoff.
Haden's on-field involvement wasn't illegal. Though technically the text message is. However, per the NCAA, there's no real penalty that can be levied. Haden's appearance was just plain weird.
But the whole implication about objectivity is laughable. Very laughable. Yeah, sure the "Playoff Committee" members who have a vested interested in a potential playoff team have to recuse themselves. But anyone who believes there aren't biases brought into that room is completely ignorant.
While the whole "Committee" system isn't perfect, it's a heck of a lot better than the alleged "Computers" that decided things previously. And it's 1,000 times more effective than the idiotic sportswriters voting ever was.
We offer this final word on Haden's goofiness. Deal with it. Stop whining Sportswriters, this is the system and world we now live in. It's far from perfect, it will NEVER be perfect. But claiming an Athletic Director would be totally biased against everyone but his team because he came down to argue with refs at a game....is just plain idiotic...
Haden explains himself to ESPN:
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))
Monday, August 11, 2014
Stanford Removes Strength Coach After Title IX Investigation
((HT: NBC Bay Area))
A Stanford University sports performance coach is out of a job after softball players reported allegations of sexual harassment within the program.
The school's Title IX coordinator investigated the softball team’s coaching and training staff and found a member of that staff created a "sexually hostile work environment."
The softball team’s head coach, John Rittman, resigned back in June.
But there has been no public connection to the investigation and his dismissal.
Here's Elyce Kirchner
A Stanford University sports performance coach is out of a job after softball players reported allegations of sexual harassment within the program.
The school's Title IX coordinator investigated the softball team’s coaching and training staff and found a member of that staff created a "sexually hostile work environment."
The softball team’s head coach, John Rittman, resigned back in June.
But there has been no public connection to the investigation and his dismissal.
Here's Elyce Kirchner
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Stanford Knows How To Produce A Season-Ending Video
((HT: Stanford their own selves))
Here's how schools who know how to edit a season-ending video edit a season-ending video...
Evidence below...
Here's how schools who know how to edit a season-ending video edit a season-ending video...
Evidence below...
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Coach O, Fight On! USC Knocks Off Stanford
((HT: ESPN on ABC/USC Athletics))
The debate may really pick up now...
Has Ed Orgeron earned the removal of the word "interim" off his coaching position at Southern Cal...???
This might be the proof...
FOSG Lindsey Thiry was in the locker room and collected these quotes from the roster via her Twitter:
We want to run through a brick wall for Coach Orgeron. -Hayes Pullard
I speak for the whole team and we absolutely love Coach O. -Cody Kessler
Clay Travis thinks the top two for the job should be Kevin Sumlin and James Franklin...
The HQ isn't all that hot about either and, in talking to those who are buying tickets these days, they like Orgeron...
Should be an interesting tug of war...
Interesting sidebar via Lisa Horne and her Twitter:
Per KABC, two people had cardiac arrests on the USC field and 1 person suffered a broken leg
Coach O is causing hearts to go a-flutter...
The debate may really pick up now...
Has Ed Orgeron earned the removal of the word "interim" off his coaching position at Southern Cal...???
This might be the proof...
FOSG Lindsey Thiry was in the locker room and collected these quotes from the roster via her Twitter:
We want to run through a brick wall for Coach Orgeron. -Hayes Pullard
I speak for the whole team and we absolutely love Coach O. -Cody Kessler
Clay Travis thinks the top two for the job should be Kevin Sumlin and James Franklin...
The HQ isn't all that hot about either and, in talking to those who are buying tickets these days, they like Orgeron...
Should be an interesting tug of war...
Interesting sidebar via Lisa Horne and her Twitter:
Per KABC, two people had cardiac arrests on the USC field and 1 person suffered a broken leg
Coach O is causing hearts to go a-flutter...
Friday, November 8, 2013
DeAnthony Thomas Was Half Right...
((HT: KVAL-TV))
The Oregon running back said that his team would put up 40 on Stanford...
Hate to say it (actually, the HQ doesn't), but Oregon needed the other half as their national title hopes went up in smoke (for now, it is November...) and lost to Stanford 26-20...
Offensively, Stanford stayed with the run and kept Oregon's defense on the field...
Defensively, Stanford pressured Marcus Mariota and kept the running game to only 20-percent of its weekly efficiency...
So much for that idea...
Here's Collin Harmon...
For the second straight year, Stanford knocked them off and blew up Marcus Mariota's post-season trophy hopes...
For now, it is November...
The Oregon running back said that his team would put up 40 on Stanford...
Hate to say it (actually, the HQ doesn't), but Oregon needed the other half as their national title hopes went up in smoke (for now, it is November...) and lost to Stanford 26-20...
Offensively, Stanford stayed with the run and kept Oregon's defense on the field...
Defensively, Stanford pressured Marcus Mariota and kept the running game to only 20-percent of its weekly efficiency...
So much for that idea...
Here's Collin Harmon...
For the second straight year, Stanford knocked them off and blew up Marcus Mariota's post-season trophy hopes...
For now, it is November...
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Oh, Stanford... You, Too...
((HT: KSL-TV))
Utah held Stanford off at the end in Salt Lake City and beat a top-five team for the first time at Rice-Eccles Stadium in school history.
Stanford allowed a first quarter touchdown for the first time all year, and Ty Montgomery became the third Cardinal player to run for a 100-yard kickoff TD- the first since 1994...
Here's the first half highlights...
And a more complete version...
((HT: ESPN/Pac-12 Network))
Utah held Stanford off at the end in Salt Lake City and beat a top-five team for the first time at Rice-Eccles Stadium in school history.
Stanford allowed a first quarter touchdown for the first time all year, and Ty Montgomery became the third Cardinal player to run for a 100-yard kickoff TD- the first since 1994...
Here's the first half highlights...
And a more complete version...
((HT: ESPN/Pac-12 Network))
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.
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Late Night CFB: Stanford Survives Washington
Two of the Pac-12's best football teams squared off late Saturday night in California and put on a game that most of the east coast probably missed.
Stanford held off a late Washington rally and walked away with a 31-28 hard fought win. The win raised their record to 5-0 and positioned them as the one team who could derail Oregon.
Washington dominated the game statistically, but the difference may have been on the opening kickoff. Stanford's Ty Montgomery brought it back 99 yards for the score and Stanford was off to the races.
Husky QB Keith Price threw for 350 yards and a couple of scores but an overturned 4th down pass ended up being the difference3.
Washington drops to 4-1 in the Pac-12 and a prime time matchup with Oregon in Seattle next weekend.
Stanford moves on to face Utah next week.
Your highlights from ESPN:
Stanford held off a late Washington rally and walked away with a 31-28 hard fought win. The win raised their record to 5-0 and positioned them as the one team who could derail Oregon.
Washington dominated the game statistically, but the difference may have been on the opening kickoff. Stanford's Ty Montgomery brought it back 99 yards for the score and Stanford was off to the races.
Husky QB Keith Price threw for 350 yards and a couple of scores but an overturned 4th down pass ended up being the difference3.
Washington drops to 4-1 in the Pac-12 and a prime time matchup with Oregon in Seattle next weekend.
Stanford moves on to face Utah next week.
Your highlights from ESPN:
Thursday, September 5, 2013
OSG's College Football Crystal Ball For Week 2
#2
Oregon at Virginia
I’m racking my brain to figure out what was the biggest game
ever played at Scott Stadium in Charlottesville and boom it came to me, when
the Wahoos defeated Florida State in 1995 to end FSU’s ACC winning streak.
Oregon rarely crosses over the big rocks (Rocky Mtn’s) much
less go as far east and the Ducks are travelling. You have to go back to 1970 when Oregon
played at West Point since the Ducks have travelled this far east.
Oregon head coach Mark Helfrich come away impressed with the
Virginia Defense.
They
dominated BYU [defensively], which doesn’t happen very much.” Helfrich said in
his weekly teleconference.
That may
be the case last week but Virginia defensive coordinator Jon Tenuta loves a
challenge and this is a biggie.
“…obviously this
is one of the best college football teams in the country, and we happen to have
the chance to play them here in Charlottesville.”
Yes Virginia you
do but Oregon will be way too much to handle.
Oregon 42,
Virginia 17
San Diego State at #3 Ohio State
The Aztecs were
defeated by Eastern Illinois last Saturday.
What kind of chance do they have against the Buckeyes.
The Ohio State
University 48, SDSU 3
South Carolina
State at #4 Clemson
Do you think the
Tigers will have a let down.
“I know everybody looks at the schedule and
thinks that it’s SC State versus Clemson.”
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney said. “It’s an FCS team, but if you think that way
then you get beat. I think there were eight FCS teams that beat FBS opponents
last Saturday.”
Clemson fans,
don’t worry.
Clemson 58, SC
State 10
San
Jose State at #5 Stanford
This was a close game last year with the Cardinal winning
20-17. The Spartans defeated Sacramento
State 24-0 for a confidence boost before heading the The Farm.
Saturday is Stanford’s season opener.
“That’s
[San Jose State] a good team,”
Stanford head coach David Shaw said.
The Spartans have won eight straight, that streak ends.
Stanford 34, San Jose State 24
Sam Houston State at Texas A&M
Raise your hand if you are over Johnny Manziel………. That’s
what I thought.
College Football’s spoiled brat will play again at Kyle
Field to dismantle the Sam Houston defense.
“They
are a tremendously talented team led by a Heisman Trophy winner.” Sam Houston State head coach Willie Fritz
said. “But playing in front of a crowd
of more than 88,000 again will be a great experience for our players and good
exposure for Sam Houston State.”
Enjoy
the experience Bearkats
Texas
A&M 49, Sam Houston State 10
More
to come, stay tuned.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
ICYMI: Basketball Fight--Stanford vs. Cal
Uh...the fact that players from Stanford and California got into a brawl during their basketball game Wednesday night may or may not surprise some.
The fact that some assistant coaches got involved too, makes it worse.
Multiple players, 1 Cal assistant coach and 2 Stanford assistants were tossed after the brawl and the Cardinal ended up winning the game 83-70.
Both schools have a history of hate and if you'll remember, their football teams were a part of the last-second "Band on the Field" game back in the 1980's.
No word from the PAC-12 as of this writing on suspension, but you can bet Cal assistant Greg Gottlieb and Stanford coaches Mark Madsen and Charles Payne are gonna be in trouble. (Ejected).
Here's the only current video that exists, shot off a TV (at least until pulled)--
The fact that some assistant coaches got involved too, makes it worse.
Multiple players, 1 Cal assistant coach and 2 Stanford assistants were tossed after the brawl and the Cardinal ended up winning the game 83-70.
Both schools have a history of hate and if you'll remember, their football teams were a part of the last-second "Band on the Field" game back in the 1980's.
No word from the PAC-12 as of this writing on suspension, but you can bet Cal assistant Greg Gottlieb and Stanford coaches Mark Madsen and Charles Payne are gonna be in trouble. (Ejected).
Here's the only current video that exists, shot off a TV (at least until pulled)--
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