UPDATE: Stanford’s starting quarterback position is in limbo with just days before their critical matchup against No. 9 Miami on Saturday at 4 p.m. EST on ESPN. Redshirt freshman Elijah Brown could make his first start after Ben Gulbranson sustained a knee injury during last weekend’s 20-13 win over Florida State.
The Cardinal are facing a daunting challenge as they head to Miami as a 30.5-point underdog. Brown’s potential debut follows a solid performance where he completed 6 of 12 passes for 71 yards after stepping in for Gulbranson, who was injured during the second quarter. Brown’s ability to keep calm under pressure was instrumental in Stanford’s surprising victory.
“I think just keeping a level head and just staying the course is the key to that win,” Brown stated, emphasizing his preparation by learning from Gulbranson. However, the team is still anxiously awaiting updates on Gulbranson’s condition, as interim coach Frank Reich remained tight-lipped during Monday’s press conference.
“You know, if I have something, I’m not afraid to give it to you guys,” Reich said. “But as of right now, I’m really not prepared with anything.”
As Stanford gears up for this crucial game, they will contend with a Miami defense that has proven formidable, allowing the fewest points in the ACC at 15.3 points per game. The Hurricanes recently suffered a setback against Louisville but have notable victories over teams like Notre Dame and Florida.
Brown’s journey has included ups and downs; he started one game last season, recording 153 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in a loss to SMU. “Obviously, last year when I got in, it didn’t really go our way,” he reflected. “But you just have to keep moving forward, keep playing the next play, and stay the course.”
As game day approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Brown performs under the spotlight and if he can lead Stanford to another shocking upset. The stakes are high, and all eyes will be on this developing story as the Cardinal prepare to face a tough opponent in Miami.
Stay tuned for further updates on Gulbranson’s status and Stanford’s game strategy leading into this pivotal matchup.
