[SamuelMcF]

How long has Stanford employed data analysts to help inform what Stanford should do on the football field in given situations?

For a while now - there was a fun segment on offensive analyst Tsuyoshi Kawata a few years back on Pac-12 Network, IIRC. 

I have to believe Shaw has learned and internalized what the data says. The fact he's simplified the offense to get younger guys on the field faster, demonstrates a willingness to evolve. As does the fact Stanford threw the ball much more last year after the run game faltered. Now, if we see a further demonstration of understanding that it's better to pass to set up the run, and use play action passing more, then we'll see Stanford's full potential on offense. I'm optimistic this is the Stanford offense we will see this year.

Many in the know unfortunately do not share your optimism, but it's all speculation until the season starts.

[SamuelMcF]

How long has Stanford employed data analysts to help inform what Stanford should do on the football field in given situations?

For a while now - there was a fun segment on offensive analyst Tsuyoshi Kawata a few years back on Pac-12 Network, IIRC. 

I have to believe Shaw has learned and internalized what the data says. The fact he's simplified the offense to get younger guys on the field faster, demonstrates a willingness to evolve. As does the fact Stanford threw the ball much more last year after the run game faltered. Now, if we see a further demonstration of understanding that it's better to pass to set up the run, and use play action passing more, then we'll see Stanford's full potential on offense. I'm optimistic this is the Stanford offense we will see this year.

Many in the know unfortunately do not share your optimism, but it's all speculation until the season starts.