As Big Game Week creeps closer, the annual clash between Stanford and Cal isn’t just another football game. It’s a wild showcase of rivalry, history, and all the pent-up emotions that come with it.
This year, Stanford’s in a bit of flux. The program’s trying to modernize, even as it wrestles with a tough season and some controversial alumni in the background.
Let’s poke around in the mess: Stanford’s current football team, the changes swirling around them, and the players who might just matter most in the big matchup.
Stanford’s Tumultuous Transition
Stanford football’s going through some real changes right now. With Frank Reich stepping in as interim head coach and Andrew Luck sliding into the Football GM role, the program’s finally trying to catch up to the modern college football world.
They’ve flipped their transfer portal stance, too. This year, they brought in 17 transfers—a huge shift from how they used to do things.
Key Transfers and Departures
There’s been a rush of new faces, like fifth-year senior QB Ben Gulbranson from Oregon State. At the same time, some big names have left, including WR Tiger Bachmeier to BYU and QB Ashton Daniels to Auburn.
It’s a mixed bag—fresh talent comes in, but there are new gaps to fill, and that’s always tricky.
Offensive Line Struggles
The offensive line’s been a real sore spot for Stanford. According to PFF, they’re ranked 114th in run blocking and 128th in pass blocking out of 136 FBS teams.
That’s rough. It’s tanked their offensive performance, especially when it comes to passing.
Freshman Starters and Growing Pains
Stanford’s starting two true freshmen on the O-line. That says a lot about their plans for the future, but also about the lack of experienced depth right now.
Their inexperience shows, especially in pass protection. The quarterbacks just aren’t getting enough time back there.
Quarterback Carousel
The QB position’s been a merry-go-round this season. They started out with Ben Gulbranson, but now redshirt freshman Elijah Brown has the reins.
Both have had their ups and downs, especially when it comes to handling pressure and making snap decisions.
Elijah Brown’s Growing Pains
Brown flashes potential—his ball placement and anticipation can be impressive. But he’s still learning, and it shows in how long he holds the ball and his struggles reading defenses.
He got sacked nine times against North Carolina, which says a lot about both the O-line and his own decision-making.
Ben Gulbranson’s Setbacks
Gulbranson, a fifth-year senior, hasn’t exactly stabilized things. He had some promise at Oregon State, but at Stanford, inconsistency has been the theme.
He’s had trouble sensing pressure, leading to some ugly sacks, and his throws have been all over the place at times.
Running Game Woes
Stanford has some talented running backs, but the run game just hasn’t come together. They’re dead last in the ACC for rushing yards per game.
That’s not what you’d expect with the talent in their backfield.
Micah Ford’s Potential
Micah Ford, a sophomore, has been one of the few bright spots. He’s got a nice mix of speed and power, and he’s shown he can grind out extra yards after contact.
Ford stands out in an offense that’s otherwise been pretty dim this year.
Supporting Cast
Backing him up are Cole Tabb and Tuna Altahir, both power runners. Tabb, especially, has a knack for bouncing outside and breaking off big runs.
Receiving Corps: A Glimmer of Hope
The receivers have actually been a pleasant surprise. Led by USC/Wisconsin transfer CJ Williams, they’ve managed to make the quarterbacks look better more often than not.
CJ Williams: The Star Receiver
Williams looks like he’s got NFL chops—his route running and contested catches are legit. He’s been the go-to guy, bailing out the QBs with his ability to get open and pick up yards after the catch.
Other Key Targets
There’s also slot receiver Caden High and tight end Sam Roush. High’s got reliable hands and runs crisp routes, while Roush is a steady presence across the middle.
Defensive Concerns
Defense has been shaky, too. Stanford often finds itself playing catch-up, which just piles on the pressure for the offense.
Key Defensive Players
The linebackers have had their moments. Still, overall, the defense has been up and down, and they’ll need to bring their best if Stanford wants a shot in the Big Game.
Special Teams: A Potential X-Factor
Special teams might end up mattering more than people think. Kicker Emmet Kenney has shown real range—he nailed a 52-yarder like it was nothing.
If this one’s close, Kenney’s leg could honestly tip the scales.
Shayne Skov Type Play
Stanford’s going to need some big plays from special teams and defense—think back to those wild Shayne Skov moments from past seasons. One or two game-changing plays like that could really light a fire under this team.
The Big Game is coming up fast, and honestly, Stanford’s got a bunch of hurdles to clear. Still, with some clever tweaks and that deep roster, they’ve got a shot to make things interesting.
If you’re hungry for a deeper dive, the full article’s over at Stanford College Football Offense 2025 Preview.
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