The Stanford Cardinal football team secured a decisive victory against the San Jose State Spartans on September 27, 2024, at Stanford Stadium. This win marks an important milestone for the Cardinal, who have now matched their win total from each of the last four seasons. The game showcased key performances, highlighted the team’s strengths, and set the stage for their upcoming challenges.
Stanford’s offense was particularly effective, with quarterback Ben Gulbranson, who is recovering from a knee injury, making significant contributions. Wide receiver Cole Tabb emerged as a standout player, celebrating a touchdown that contributed to Stanford’s scoring. The Cardinal’s attack averaged 391 yards and 26.7 points per game at home, a stark contrast to their struggles on the road where they averaged just 280.3 yards and 13.3 points.
The game was notable not only for its outcome but also for being the first meeting between Stanford and San Jose State since their previous encounters. It was a significant event as Stanford played in a current NFL stadium for the first time since their 2021 season opener against Kansas State at AT&T Stadium.
Despite the victory, the Cardinal face challenges ahead. They have yet to secure a win on the road or against ranked opponents this season, having previously lost to No. 11 BYU and No. 16 Virginia. Their upcoming matchup against the No. 9 Miami Hurricanes poses a considerable test, particularly given Miami’s strong defensive lineup, led by projected Top 10 draft pick Rueben Bane.
The Miami Hurricanes are coming off their first loss of the season, a 24-21 defeat to Louisville. Despite this setback, the Hurricanes remain a formidable opponent. Freshman receiver Malachi Toney stood out in their previous game, recording nine catches for 135 yards and a touchdown, alongside a two-point conversion pass. Quarterback Carson Beck, who previously led Georgia to the College Football Playoff, will be looking to rebound after a challenging game that saw him throw four interceptions.
Stanford’s performance against San Jose State offers both optimism and caution. While they have demonstrated the ability to score and move the ball effectively at home, their road performances have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. The Cardinal have lost their last nine road games against Associated Press Top 25 opponents, a streak they will aim to break in Miami.
Looking ahead, Stanford must address their inconsistencies, especially as they prepare for a crucial stretch of games that could define their season. The upcoming match against Miami, where they are currently a 30.5-point underdog, will require a concerted effort from both the offense and defense.
As the team continues to develop, the coaching staff will be keeping a close eye on the recruiting landscape, with an emphasis on bolstering their roster for future seasons. The Cardinal’s ability to attract top talent will play a vital role in their quest to return to prominence in college football.
In summary, the Stanford Cardinal’s victory over the San Jose State Spartans highlighted their potential and areas for improvement. As they gear up for their next challenge against Miami, the results of this game will serve as a crucial reference point for the coaching staff and players alike.
