College Football Rankings: Top 25 entering spring games
By Brad Weiss
Stanford Cardinal
2016: 10-3, Pac 12-North Division
The Stanford Cardinal got off to a rough start to the 2016 season, and it really ruined their chances at fighting for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Once Keller Chryst was inserted at quarterback, the team made a nice turnaround, finishing the season with ten wins. The Cardinal head into 2017 having to replace star running back Christian McCaffrey, and standout defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, both of whom should be selected in the first round of next month’s NFL Draft.
McCaffrey was a do-everything back for the Cardinal, but Bryce Love did a nice job when he decided not to play in the team’s bowl game last season. He is an incredible talent, and Chryst should feel very comfortable with him in the backfield. However, Chryst’s best option in the passing game may be Trenton Irwin, which means a heavy dose of Love for the Cardinal this upcoming season.
The defense is what is going to separate the Cardinal in the Pac-12, as the unit is talented and experienced. Expect a huge season from Harrison Phillips, who racked up 6.5 sacks playing alongside Thomas last season. The secondary was an issue last season, but the Quenton Meeks-led unit should actually be a strength for the team in 2017.
This team is going to have to run the ball and play good defense if they hope to take control of the Pac-12 North Division this season. Chryst should take another step forward in his development, but Ryan Burns, who Chryst took over for during last season, is back if he should falter in his second year under center. Head coach David Shaw is going to have his team ready to play, but the conference may be more improved than the Cardinal are next season.