[Goose]

I am not exactly sure who the we is that you are referring to, but for the most part the Stanford fan base was highly skeptical of Chryst going into the 2017 season. This was mostly because his three good games came against atrocious defenses, but also because he had collapsed into inaccuracy problems at several points in 2016. I myself argued on this board, that Chryst's good games were still good games even if the defenses were bad - but was also wary about what he had established and his consistency.

Perhaps it is only my perception, but it seemed to me that there was a clear plurality of people on this board making your argument about good games without voicing the associated caveats. It could be that there were more doubts present than were voiced. It seemed somehow disloyal to say that Chryst was not the answer when he was winning games, so people didn't. Granted, there were exceptions to this "trend". I distinctly recall most people saying Chryst did great against NC until he got hurt, which just wasn't so IMHO.

Costello does look a lot better than Chryst to me, largely for the reasons listed above but perhaps even moreso because he doesn't seem to go into a funk the way Chryst did from time to time.
If you want a statistic on the point, I'd go with:
In 2016 Chryst played the predominant part of five games, with two very poor performances. Four of the five were against very poor defenses, with OSU being the best at #79.
In 2017 Costello played the predominant part of eight games with one very poor performance. The poor performance was against a very good defense (WSU - #16 overall, #7 pass defense PER). Five of the defenses he faced were better than the best defense Chryst saw in 2016, and all were better than the second best defense Chryst saw.

I tend to agree that Costello LOOKS much better than Chryst. He is decisive. How accurate he can/will be is still a question. At least he doesn't seem to be drilling for oil. It is probably inevitable that a QB will look better against a poor defense than he will against a very good one (Chryst vs OSU obviously proves this is not universally true). However, sometimes guys who are decisive throw to the wrong team a lot. So far, Costello hasn't done that. While he didn't go into a "funk", the wheels did come off pretty badly against TCU. Certainly not totally "his fault", but he wasn't the "solution" either. Yes, TCU was a good team, but those are the guys we want to beat. Against WSU, I think Shaw is correct that he had Costello playing to conservatively, so I give KJ a pass there. So, my feeling on KJ is lots of optimism coupled with lots of "We will see".

-----
To the broader point, I would agree that one cannot declare Costello better without examining the other guy. 
San Diego hasn't thrown the ball much under Chapman, averaging under 19 attempts per game for three straight years. For comparison, last year Stanford threw 25.9 times per game.
Chapman has been pretty efficient - roughly what Shaw wants from a QB. Last year Chapman had an efficiency rating of 139.2 just about dead even with Costello at 139.5. The previous year Chapman came in at 149.2. 
An interesting (infuriating?) bit about Chapman was that his game versus Stanford was his career high in attempts and completions, his only game with over 20 completions ... only game over 16 completions for that matter.

Chapman has done what they asked him to do, and he has done it well. They had Penny They wanted to run the ball, just like we want to run the ball. They were able to do so for the most part, so the ball wasn't going to be in the air that much. As you pointed out, the previous year they asked more of him, and they got it. This year, while it is expected they will still have a good run game, they are expected to throw more. So far, Chapman has done what he was asked to do. He has also pulled them out of some tight spots, although not so much last year. Do I think KJ has a higher upside? Probably. But he hasn't demonstrated that he is able to raise his level of play to win games when things are not going well, at least not yet. So, I can't get behind the assertion that KJ is "better" than Chapman in the context of the next game. Not enough data on KJ.

[Goose]

I am not exactly sure who the we is that you are referring to, but for the most part the Stanford fan base was highly skeptical of Chryst going into the 2017 season. This was mostly because his three good games came against atrocious defenses, but also because he had collapsed into inaccuracy problems at several points in 2016. I myself argued on this board, that Chryst's good games were still good games even if the defenses were bad - but was also wary about what he had established and his consistency.

Perhaps it is only my perception, but it seemed to me that there was a clear plurality of people on this board making your argument about good games without voicing the associated caveats. It could be that there were more doubts present than were voiced. It seemed somehow disloyal to say that Chryst was not the answer when he was winning games, so people didn't. Granted, there were exceptions to this "trend". I distinctly recall most people saying Chryst did great against NC until he got hurt, which just wasn't so IMHO.

Costello does look a lot better than Chryst to me, largely for the reasons listed above but perhaps even moreso because he doesn't seem to go into a funk the way Chryst did from time to time.
If you want a statistic on the point, I'd go with:
In 2016 Chryst played the predominant part of five games, with two very poor performances. Four of the five were against very poor defenses, with OSU being the best at #79.
In 2017 Costello played the predominant part of eight games with one very poor performance. The poor performance was against a very good defense (WSU - #16 overall, #7 pass defense PER). Five of the defenses he faced were better than the best defense Chryst saw in 2016, and all were better than the second best defense Chryst saw.

I tend to agree that Costello LOOKS much better than Chryst. He is decisive. How accurate he can/will be is still a question. At least he doesn't seem to be drilling for oil. It is probably inevitable that a QB will look better against a poor defense than he will against a very good one (Chryst vs OSU obviously proves this is not universally true). However, sometimes guys who are decisive throw to the wrong team a lot. So far, Costello hasn't done that. While he didn't go into a "funk", the wheels did come off pretty badly against TCU. Certainly not totally "his fault", but he wasn't the "solution" either. Yes, TCU was a good team, but those are the guys we want to beat. Against WSU, I think Shaw is correct that he had Costello playing to conservatively, so I give KJ a pass there. So, my feeling on KJ is lots of optimism coupled with lots of "We will see".

-----
To the broader point, I would agree that one cannot declare Costello better without examining the other guy. 
San Diego hasn't thrown the ball much under Chapman, averaging under 19 attempts per game for three straight years. For comparison, last year Stanford threw 25.9 times per game.
Chapman has been pretty efficient - roughly what Shaw wants from a QB. Last year Chapman had an efficiency rating of 139.2 just about dead even with Costello at 139.5. The previous year Chapman came in at 149.2. 
An interesting (infuriating?) bit about Chapman was that his game versus Stanford was his career high in attempts and completions, his only game with over 20 completions ... only game over 16 completions for that matter.

Chapman has done what they asked him to do, and he has done it well. They had Penny They wanted to run the ball, just like we want to run the ball. They were able to do so for the most part, so the ball wasn't going to be in the air that much. As you pointed out, the previous year they asked more of him, and they got it. This year, while it is expected they will still have a good run game, they are expected to throw more. So far, Chapman has done what he was asked to do. He has also pulled them out of some tight spots, although not so much last year. Do I think KJ has a higher upside? Probably. But he hasn't demonstrated that he is able to raise his level of play to win games when things are not going well, at least not yet. So, I can't get behind the assertion that KJ is "better" than Chapman in the context of the next game. Not enough data on KJ.

[OutsiderFan]

But he hasn't demonstrated that he is able to raise his level of play to win games when things are not going well, at least not yet. So, I can't get behind the assertion that KJ is "better" than Chapman in the context of the next game. Not enough data on KJ.

Yes, if only Costello could have put more pressure on Darnold in the Pac-12 Championship game. If only he played CB and could stop a TCU WR from running right past him in the Alamo Bowl.  Sure Costello could have been better, but a 14/4 TD/INT ratio is pretty respectable, and Stanford was in position to win its last two games of 2018 with the performance Costello gave, had the defense stepped up.  And let's not forget, he was also playing with a torn hip labrum those last two games.

I can't honestly believe any Stanford fan would think the SDSU QB could be better than KJ, especially considering the OL, Love, and the array of receiving targets he has on his side. Live a little. Let yourself go. Feel good about your team. Put your chest out a bit. Show some confidence and channel it into the players. Maybe they might feel more supported and give a bit more than they think they have because they know their fans really believe in them. Why the need to be so damn circumspect?

[OutsiderFan]

But he hasn't demonstrated that he is able to raise his level of play to win games when things are not going well, at least not yet. So, I can't get behind the assertion that KJ is "better" than Chapman in the context of the next game. Not enough data on KJ.

Yes, if only Costello could have put more pressure on Darnold in the Pac-12 Championship game. If only he played CB and could stop a TCU WR from running right past him in the Alamo Bowl.  Sure Costello could have been better, but a 14/4 TD/INT ratio is pretty respectable, and Stanford was in position to win its last two games of 2018 with the performance Costello gave, had the defense stepped up.  And let's not forget, he was also playing with a torn hip labrum those last two games.

I can't honestly believe any Stanford fan would think the SDSU QB could be better than KJ, especially considering the OL, Love, and the array of receiving targets he has on his side. Live a little. Let yourself go. Feel good about your team. Put your chest out a bit. Show some confidence and channel it into the players. Maybe they might feel more supported and give a bit more than they think they have because they know their fans really believe in them. Why the need to be so damn circumspect?

[stupac2]

Why the need to be so damn circumspect?

It's congenital.

[stupac2]

Why the need to be so damn circumspect?

It's congenital.

[Mick]

Costello was always a better prospect then Chryst. Costello should have been the starter in 2017 from the Rice game on, and I am not saying that in hindsight This was my opinion at the time. Costello is more decisive, is a quicker athlete, is a more accurate passer, plays with passion that inspires his teammates, and when he played, he proved he was better than Chryst. He's only going to get better. And for the record, I also believe Davis Mills is better than Costello. Stanford should be in pretty good shape at QB the next few seasons at least.

https://allfortennessee.com/2018/06/06/t...jection/2/
It will be interesting to see how well Chryst does in Tennessee.

[Mick]

Costello was always a better prospect then Chryst. Costello should have been the starter in 2017 from the Rice game on, and I am not saying that in hindsight This was my opinion at the time. Costello is more decisive, is a quicker athlete, is a more accurate passer, plays with passion that inspires his teammates, and when he played, he proved he was better than Chryst. He's only going to get better. And for the record, I also believe Davis Mills is better than Costello. Stanford should be in pretty good shape at QB the next few seasons at least.

https://allfortennessee.com/2018/06/06/t...jection/2/
It will be interesting to see how well Chryst does in Tennessee.

[Goose]

But he hasn't demonstrated that he is able to raise his level of play to win games when things are not going well, at least not yet. So, I can't get behind the assertion that KJ is "better" than Chapman in the context of the next game. Not enough data on KJ.

Yes, if only Costello could have put more pressure on Darnold in the Pac-12 Championship game. If only he played CB and could stop a TCU WR from running right past him in the Alamo Bowl.

Straw men. Yes, if TCU sucked bad enough you or I could have been out there at QB and it wouldn't have mattered. They didn't, and our defense was unable to stop them.

 Sure Costello could have been better, but a 14/4 TD/INT ratio is pretty respectable, and Stanford was in position to win its last two games of 2018 with the performance Costello gave, had the defense stepped up.

Or if the offense had scored more points and/or had more sustained drives. But that didn't happen. Lots of possibilities of what could have happened. Did KJ play poorly against USC? No, he didn't. Could he have played better? Yes We lost a lot of close games last year, and in close games every little thing matters. KJ did not "lose" those games for us. He didn't win them either. 

And let's not forget, he was also playing with a torn hip labrum those last two games.

And yes, that matters. It basically took away any QB runs, I would imagine. However, anybody who trys to tell me that the last series of the TCU game was well managed and well executed by KJ (or the rest of the team) is going to get an argument from me. 

I can't honestly believe any Stanford fan would think the SDSU QB could be better than KJ, especially considering the OL, Love, and the array of receiving targets he has on his side.

The fact that KJ may have better weapons on his side makes it easier for him to be successful. It does not make KJ "better". It for sure makes Stanford better. And why is it so insane to think Chapman is pretty good, possibly better than what KJ has shown so far? Both QBs have benefited from there supporting casts, probably KJ more than Chapman.   I did at least did look at the record a bit. Do I believe that at the end of this year KJ will be considered a better QB than Chapman? I do. Do I think there is enough evidence to conclude that is obviously true today? I do not. Being a Fan(atic) may excuse some irrationality, but I happen to think Stanford is good enough that we don't need that.

Live a little. Let yourself go. Feel good about your team. Put your chest out a bit. Show some confidence and channel it into the players. Maybe they might feel more supported and give a bit more than they think they have because they know their fans really believe in them. Why the need to be so damn circumspect?

I do  reject the notion that it is correct to say "KJ is better than Chapman and I don't even have to look at Chapman to know this". I personally think KJ IS going to be better than Chapman, but I won't insult KJ or Chapman by saying that is a proven fact as of right now. If I do that, I think KJ would not value my opinion much. I do "feel good" about this team, and about KJ Costello as our QB. KJ has shown talent and, as Shaw says, "moxie". That counts a lot. One thing I like about KJ is that when interviewed, he seems to tell it like it is. I remember him saying "I missed that" in a situation where he didn't have to do so. The fans would never have known that.
I do feel good about our chances this year. I think it is neither necessary nor wise to downgrade our opponents in the name of "support our team". Quite the opposite. We want to beat the best, not the South Nowhere State teams. So, I am actually pretty high on our chances. That doesn't mean I am going to make no distinction between what I believe and what is "proven".

[Goose]

But he hasn't demonstrated that he is able to raise his level of play to win games when things are not going well, at least not yet. So, I can't get behind the assertion that KJ is "better" than Chapman in the context of the next game. Not enough data on KJ.

Yes, if only Costello could have put more pressure on Darnold in the Pac-12 Championship game. If only he played CB and could stop a TCU WR from running right past him in the Alamo Bowl.

Straw men. Yes, if TCU sucked bad enough you or I could have been out there at QB and it wouldn't have mattered. They didn't, and our defense was unable to stop them.

 Sure Costello could have been better, but a 14/4 TD/INT ratio is pretty respectable, and Stanford was in position to win its last two games of 2018 with the performance Costello gave, had the defense stepped up.

Or if the offense had scored more points and/or had more sustained drives. But that didn't happen. Lots of possibilities of what could have happened. Did KJ play poorly against USC? No, he didn't. Could he have played better? Yes We lost a lot of close games last year, and in close games every little thing matters. KJ did not "lose" those games for us. He didn't win them either. 

And let's not forget, he was also playing with a torn hip labrum those last two games.

And yes, that matters. It basically took away any QB runs, I would imagine. However, anybody who trys to tell me that the last series of the TCU game was well managed and well executed by KJ (or the rest of the team) is going to get an argument from me. 

I can't honestly believe any Stanford fan would think the SDSU QB could be better than KJ, especially considering the OL, Love, and the array of receiving targets he has on his side.

The fact that KJ may have better weapons on his side makes it easier for him to be successful. It does not make KJ "better". It for sure makes Stanford better. And why is it so insane to think Chapman is pretty good, possibly better than what KJ has shown so far? Both QBs have benefited from there supporting casts, probably KJ more than Chapman.   I did at least did look at the record a bit. Do I believe that at the end of this year KJ will be considered a better QB than Chapman? I do. Do I think there is enough evidence to conclude that is obviously true today? I do not. Being a Fan(atic) may excuse some irrationality, but I happen to think Stanford is good enough that we don't need that.

Live a little. Let yourself go. Feel good about your team. Put your chest out a bit. Show some confidence and channel it into the players. Maybe they might feel more supported and give a bit more than they think they have because they know their fans really believe in them. Why the need to be so damn circumspect?

I do  reject the notion that it is correct to say "KJ is better than Chapman and I don't even have to look at Chapman to know this". I personally think KJ IS going to be better than Chapman, but I won't insult KJ or Chapman by saying that is a proven fact as of right now. If I do that, I think KJ would not value my opinion much. I do "feel good" about this team, and about KJ Costello as our QB. KJ has shown talent and, as Shaw says, "moxie". That counts a lot. One thing I like about KJ is that when interviewed, he seems to tell it like it is. I remember him saying "I missed that" in a situation where he didn't have to do so. The fans would never have known that.
I do feel good about our chances this year. I think it is neither necessary nor wise to downgrade our opponents in the name of "support our team". Quite the opposite. We want to beat the best, not the South Nowhere State teams. So, I am actually pretty high on our chances. That doesn't mean I am going to make no distinction between what I believe and what is "proven".

[SamuelMcF]

I made a special effort to sign back up for this board after I read the fan's post.

The poster's observation about his Aztecs' defensive line getting to Costello  startled me.

The Aztecs had a good team last year, but their pass rush was a decided weakness.  FEI ranked its sack rate the 8th worst in the country, and its sack rate on passing downs the 10th worst.  

23 sacks in total last season (in 13 games including bowl). 4 of these came against Stanford, with a yet-again-reshuffled OL and a deer-in-the-headlights-without-any-of-the-pocket-escapability-a-deer-would-have at QB. SDSU rushed 5+ on defense almost every single play. If they try that again it won't go well.

[SamuelMcF]

I made a special effort to sign back up for this board after I read the fan's post.

The poster's observation about his Aztecs' defensive line getting to Costello  startled me.

The Aztecs had a good team last year, but their pass rush was a decided weakness.  FEI ranked its sack rate the 8th worst in the country, and its sack rate on passing downs the 10th worst.  

23 sacks in total last season (in 13 games including bowl). 4 of these came against Stanford, with a yet-again-reshuffled OL and a deer-in-the-headlights-without-any-of-the-pocket-escapability-a-deer-would-have at QB. SDSU rushed 5+ on defense almost every single play. If they try that again it won't go well.

[Hulk01]

Chapman had a 39 QBR rating last year.  Costello's worst game was a 76.  Costello doesn't need to be more consistent to demonstrate he's a markedly better quarterback than Chapman, who actually had a greater variance in performance.  He was far more inconsistent than Costello.
 
Costello ranked third in the country- (92.3)-behind Baker Mayfield and Khalil Tate--in that category, and the rest of the top ten in that stat were the consensus best QBs in the nation: Mason Rudolph, Lamar Jackson, McKenzie Milton, Jacob Fromm, Jalen Hurts and JT Barrett.  Chapman ranked 103rd.

[Hulk01]

Chapman had a 39 QBR rating last year.  Costello's worst game was a 76.  Costello doesn't need to be more consistent to demonstrate he's a markedly better quarterback than Chapman, who actually had a greater variance in performance.  He was far more inconsistent than Costello.
 
Costello ranked third in the country- (92.3)-behind Baker Mayfield and Khalil Tate--in that category, and the rest of the top ten in that stat were the consensus best QBs in the nation: Mason Rudolph, Lamar Jackson, McKenzie Milton, Jacob Fromm, Jalen Hurts and JT Barrett.  Chapman ranked 103rd.

[ChicagoCard]

Nothing earth-shattering but rumor has it that SDSU will pick up a grad transfer safety from Iowa, Brandon Snyder.

[ChicagoCard]

Nothing earth-shattering but rumor has it that SDSU will pick up a grad transfer safety from Iowa, Brandon Snyder.

[Spiny_Norman]

Nothing earth-shattering but rumor has it that SDSU will pick up a grad transfer safety from Iowa, Brandon Snyder.

Box score for Rose Bowl 2016 shows that he played on special teams vs. Stanford. Had an assisted tackle on a kickoff.

[Spiny_Norman]

Nothing earth-shattering but rumor has it that SDSU will pick up a grad transfer safety from Iowa, Brandon Snyder.

Box score for Rose Bowl 2016 shows that he played on special teams vs. Stanford. Had an assisted tackle on a kickoff.

[SteveAztec]

I made a special effort to sign back up for this board after I read the fan's post.

The poster's observation about his Aztecs' defensive line getting to Costello  startled me.

The Aztecs had a good team last year, but their pass rush was a decided weakness.  FEI ranked its sack rate the 8th worst in the country, and its sack rate on passing downs the 10th worst.  

23 sacks in total last season (in 13 games including bowl). 4 of these came against Stanford, with a yet-again-reshuffled OL and a deer-in-the-headlights-without-any-of-the-pocket-escapability-a-deer-would-have at QB. SDSU rushed 5+ on defense almost every single play. If they try that again it won't go well.

And I think it is important that overall stats not be over used.  The goal of the Aztecs defense is not to get 15 sacks in one game (although that would be nice)...the goal is to surprise the QB, blindside the QB.  Hit the QB often.  It only takes once or twice for a QB to get blindsided on a blitz to change his entire though process.  Getting cracked changes the complexion of the passing game.

We were a little weak on the rush from our down lineman last year, but lets remember that our 3 Line D front is rushing against 5 guys.

[SteveAztec]

I made a special effort to sign back up for this board after I read the fan's post.

The poster's observation about his Aztecs' defensive line getting to Costello  startled me.

The Aztecs had a good team last year, but their pass rush was a decided weakness.  FEI ranked its sack rate the 8th worst in the country, and its sack rate on passing downs the 10th worst.  

23 sacks in total last season (in 13 games including bowl). 4 of these came against Stanford, with a yet-again-reshuffled OL and a deer-in-the-headlights-without-any-of-the-pocket-escapability-a-deer-would-have at QB. SDSU rushed 5+ on defense almost every single play. If they try that again it won't go well.

And I think it is important that overall stats not be over used.  The goal of the Aztecs defense is not to get 15 sacks in one game (although that would be nice)...the goal is to surprise the QB, blindside the QB.  Hit the QB often.  It only takes once or twice for a QB to get blindsided on a blitz to change his entire though process.  Getting cracked changes the complexion of the passing game.

We were a little weak on the rush from our down lineman last year, but lets remember that our 3 Line D front is rushing against 5 guys.

[Spiny_Norman]

SteveAztec,

Getting back to your visit to campus for game day, long-time CardBoarder Terry has a standard set of recommendations that he offers to visiting fans. I have copied here and updated for recent campus activity.

If you get to Palo Alto early and you're looking for a place to hang out, you might try the Old Pro, a sports bar in downtown Palo Alto. It probably will be crowded. The address is 541 Ramona St., Palo Alto -- http://www.oldpropa.com/

If you haven't been to Stanford before, I would suggest entering campus by way of University Avenue. It takes you through downtown Palo Alto and into the campus. The name of the street changes from University Ave. to Palm Drive as you cross over El Camino Real. That gives you the "picture postcard" view of the campus as you enter.

Regarding game-day activities -- If you've never been to the Stanford campus, I would advise that you spend some time walking around the central campus area. It's possible to come to a football game, park, tailgate, and leave without ever seeing the central campus. I think that would be a mistake. Some spots to see on campus:

- The Quad. This is the academic heart of the campus. Spend some time wandering around. You will want to go into Memorial Church. Check out Memorial Court, which is at the main entrance to the Quad. Just outside the main entrance to the Quad is the Oval, a large grassy area that often is the site of frisbee, sunbathing, picnics, or whatever. The Quad is near the middle of this map -- https://campus-map.stanford.edu/

- White Plaza. This the crossroads of the campus and there's usually a lot of activity. The Bookstore has Stanford clothing and souvenirs. You can get something to eat at the Tresidder Union. Look in the bottom center part of the map.

- The Rodin Sculpture Garden at the Museum. (The Museum is formally known as the Cantor Center.) I think admission to the Museum is free if you want to go inside, but you don't have to enter the Museum to see the Rodin Garden. Part of the Cantor Arts Center.

- Hoover Tower. You won't have a problem finding it. Just look up. If the tower is open, you may want to ride up and see the campus from above.

- The Stanford Athletics Home of Champions in the Arrillaga Family Sports Center, 641 E. Campus Drive. This is the new hall of fame space which opened a year ago. Free admission. Lots of interactive displays. Lots of trophies too.

Two hours before kickoff, the Stanford team will walk from its locker room at Arrillaga Family Sports Center to the stadium. The Walk is a long-standing tradition. Fans will stand along the route and applaud the team as it walks past. The best place to see the Walk is in Chuck Taylor Grove, along Sam McDonald Mall. The Band plays in Chuck Taylor Grove immediately before the Walk.

While you're in Chuck Taylor Grove, take a look for the plaques honoring college football Hall of Famers Chuck Taylor (a Stanford player, coach, and athletic director) and Pop Warner (Stanford's winningest coach ever).

The Stanford "Fan Fest" is in the hammer throw area of Angell Field, on the opposite side of Sam McDonald Mall from Chuck Taylor Grove. You can get something to eat at the Fan Fest. https://gostanford.com/sports/2013/4/17/208445471.aspx

[Spiny_Norman]

SteveAztec,

Getting back to your visit to campus for game day, long-time CardBoarder Terry has a standard set of recommendations that he offers to visiting fans. I have copied here and updated for recent campus activity.

If you get to Palo Alto early and you're looking for a place to hang out, you might try the Old Pro, a sports bar in downtown Palo Alto. It probably will be crowded. The address is 541 Ramona St., Palo Alto -- http://www.oldpropa.com/

If you haven't been to Stanford before, I would suggest entering campus by way of University Avenue. It takes you through downtown Palo Alto and into the campus. The name of the street changes from University Ave. to Palm Drive as you cross over El Camino Real. That gives you the "picture postcard" view of the campus as you enter.

Regarding game-day activities -- If you've never been to the Stanford campus, I would advise that you spend some time walking around the central campus area. It's possible to come to a football game, park, tailgate, and leave without ever seeing the central campus. I think that would be a mistake. Some spots to see on campus:

- The Quad. This is the academic heart of the campus. Spend some time wandering around. You will want to go into Memorial Church. Check out Memorial Court, which is at the main entrance to the Quad. Just outside the main entrance to the Quad is the Oval, a large grassy area that often is the site of frisbee, sunbathing, picnics, or whatever. The Quad is near the middle of this map -- https://campus-map.stanford.edu/

- White Plaza. This the crossroads of the campus and there's usually a lot of activity. The Bookstore has Stanford clothing and souvenirs. You can get something to eat at the Tresidder Union. Look in the bottom center part of the map.

- The Rodin Sculpture Garden at the Museum. (The Museum is formally known as the Cantor Center.) I think admission to the Museum is free if you want to go inside, but you don't have to enter the Museum to see the Rodin Garden. Part of the Cantor Arts Center.

- Hoover Tower. You won't have a problem finding it. Just look up. If the tower is open, you may want to ride up and see the campus from above.

- The Stanford Athletics Home of Champions in the Arrillaga Family Sports Center, 641 E. Campus Drive. This is the new hall of fame space which opened a year ago. Free admission. Lots of interactive displays. Lots of trophies too.

Two hours before kickoff, the Stanford team will walk from its locker room at Arrillaga Family Sports Center to the stadium. The Walk is a long-standing tradition. Fans will stand along the route and applaud the team as it walks past. The best place to see the Walk is in Chuck Taylor Grove, along Sam McDonald Mall. The Band plays in Chuck Taylor Grove immediately before the Walk.

While you're in Chuck Taylor Grove, take a look for the plaques honoring college football Hall of Famers Chuck Taylor (a Stanford player, coach, and athletic director) and Pop Warner (Stanford's winningest coach ever).

The Stanford "Fan Fest" is in the hammer throw area of Angell Field, on the opposite side of Sam McDonald Mall from Chuck Taylor Grove. You can get something to eat at the Fan Fest. https://gostanford.com/sports/2013/4/17/208445471.aspx

[qwerty49]

And I don't mean to be a dick, Aztec fan, but San Diego State is just a nuisance Stanford faces before a meaningful game against USC the following week. 

Typical passive-aggressive and most certainly dickish.  

But don't worry, I will apologize on our behalf to our visitor for you.

[qwerty49]

And I don't mean to be a dick, Aztec fan, but San Diego State is just a nuisance Stanford faces before a meaningful game against USC the following week. 

Typical passive-aggressive and most certainly dickish.  

But don't worry, I will apologize on our behalf to our visitor for you.

[OutsiderFan]

And I don't mean to be a dick, Aztec fan, but San Diego State is just a nuisance Stanford faces before a meaningful game against USC the following week. 

Typical passive-aggressive and most certainly dickish.  

But don't worry, I will apologize on our behalf to our visitor for you.

Well, the Aztec fan was not bothered by what I posted - and earned a lot of my respect for his reply - so why should anyone else be bothered by it?  I was merely expressing the game matchup as honestly as possible.  Others can talk about the game experience, how awesome Stanford is to visit, etc.

[OutsiderFan]

And I don't mean to be a dick, Aztec fan, but San Diego State is just a nuisance Stanford faces before a meaningful game against USC the following week. 

Typical passive-aggressive and most certainly dickish.  

But don't worry, I will apologize on our behalf to our visitor for you.

Well, the Aztec fan was not bothered by what I posted - and earned a lot of my respect for his reply - so why should anyone else be bothered by it?  I was merely expressing the game matchup as honestly as possible.  Others can talk about the game experience, how awesome Stanford is to visit, etc.

[SteveAztec]

SteveAztec,

Getting back to your visit to campus for game day, long-time CardBoarder Terry has a standard set of recommendations that he offers to visiting fans. I have copied here and updated for recent campus activity.

If you get to Palo Alto early and you're looking for a place to hang out, you might try the Old Pro, a sports bar in downtown Palo Alto. It probably will be crowded. The address is 541 Ramona St., Palo Alto -- http://www.oldpropa.com/

If you haven't been to Stanford before, I would suggest entering campus by way of University Avenue. It takes you through downtown Palo Alto and into the campus. The name of the street changes from University Ave. to Palm Drive as you cross over El Camino Real. That gives you the "picture postcard" view of the campus as you enter.

Regarding game-day activities -- If you've never been to the Stanford campus, I would advise that you spend some time walking around the central campus area. It's possible to come to a football game, park, tailgate, and leave without ever seeing the central campus. I think that would be a mistake. Some spots to see on campus:

- The Quad. This is the academic heart of the campus. Spend some time wandering around. You will want to go into Memorial Church. Check out Memorial Court, which is at the main entrance to the Quad. Just outside the main entrance to the Quad is the Oval, a large grassy area that often is the site of frisbee, sunbathing, picnics, or whatever. The Quad is near the middle of this map -- https://campus-map.stanford.edu/

- White Plaza. This the crossroads of the campus and there's usually a lot of activity. The Bookstore has Stanford clothing and souvenirs. You can get something to eat at the Tresidder Union. Look in the bottom center part of the map.

- The Rodin Sculpture Garden at the Museum. (The Museum is formally known as the Cantor Center.) I think admission to the Museum is free if you want to go inside, but you don't have to enter the Museum to see the Rodin Garden. Part of the Cantor Arts Center.

- Hoover Tower. You won't have a problem finding it. Just look up. If the tower is open, you may want to ride up and see the campus from above.

- The Stanford Athletics Home of Champions in the Arrillaga Family Sports Center, 641 E. Campus Drive. This is the new hall of fame space which opened a year ago. Free admission. Lots of interactive displays. Lots of trophies too.

Two hours before kickoff, the Stanford team will walk from its locker room at Arrillaga Family Sports Center to the stadium. The Walk is a long-standing tradition. Fans will stand along the route and applaud the team as it walks past. The best place to see the Walk is in Chuck Taylor Grove, along Sam McDonald Mall. The Band plays in Chuck Taylor Grove immediately before the Walk.

While you're in Chuck Taylor Grove, take a look for the plaques honoring college football Hall of Famers Chuck Taylor (a Stanford player, coach, and athletic director) and Pop Warner (Stanford's winningest coach ever).

The Stanford "Fan Fest" is in the hammer throw area of Angell Field, on the opposite side of Sam McDonald Mall from Chuck Taylor Grove. You can get something to eat at the Fan Fest. https://gostanford.com/sports/2013/4/17/208445471.aspx

Thank you very much.  We will be up the night before the game at a hotel in the area and then head to Stadium.

[SteveAztec]

SteveAztec,

Getting back to your visit to campus for game day, long-time CardBoarder Terry has a standard set of recommendations that he offers to visiting fans. I have copied here and updated for recent campus activity.

If you get to Palo Alto early and you're looking for a place to hang out, you might try the Old Pro, a sports bar in downtown Palo Alto. It probably will be crowded. The address is 541 Ramona St., Palo Alto -- http://www.oldpropa.com/

If you haven't been to Stanford before, I would suggest entering campus by way of University Avenue. It takes you through downtown Palo Alto and into the campus. The name of the street changes from University Ave. to Palm Drive as you cross over El Camino Real. That gives you the "picture postcard" view of the campus as you enter.

Regarding game-day activities -- If you've never been to the Stanford campus, I would advise that you spend some time walking around the central campus area. It's possible to come to a football game, park, tailgate, and leave without ever seeing the central campus. I think that would be a mistake. Some spots to see on campus:

- The Quad. This is the academic heart of the campus. Spend some time wandering around. You will want to go into Memorial Church. Check out Memorial Court, which is at the main entrance to the Quad. Just outside the main entrance to the Quad is the Oval, a large grassy area that often is the site of frisbee, sunbathing, picnics, or whatever. The Quad is near the middle of this map -- https://campus-map.stanford.edu/

- White Plaza. This the crossroads of the campus and there's usually a lot of activity. The Bookstore has Stanford clothing and souvenirs. You can get something to eat at the Tresidder Union. Look in the bottom center part of the map.

- The Rodin Sculpture Garden at the Museum. (The Museum is formally known as the Cantor Center.) I think admission to the Museum is free if you want to go inside, but you don't have to enter the Museum to see the Rodin Garden. Part of the Cantor Arts Center.

- Hoover Tower. You won't have a problem finding it. Just look up. If the tower is open, you may want to ride up and see the campus from above.

- The Stanford Athletics Home of Champions in the Arrillaga Family Sports Center, 641 E. Campus Drive. This is the new hall of fame space which opened a year ago. Free admission. Lots of interactive displays. Lots of trophies too.

Two hours before kickoff, the Stanford team will walk from its locker room at Arrillaga Family Sports Center to the stadium. The Walk is a long-standing tradition. Fans will stand along the route and applaud the team as it walks past. The best place to see the Walk is in Chuck Taylor Grove, along Sam McDonald Mall. The Band plays in Chuck Taylor Grove immediately before the Walk.

While you're in Chuck Taylor Grove, take a look for the plaques honoring college football Hall of Famers Chuck Taylor (a Stanford player, coach, and athletic director) and Pop Warner (Stanford's winningest coach ever).

The Stanford "Fan Fest" is in the hammer throw area of Angell Field, on the opposite side of Sam McDonald Mall from Chuck Taylor Grove. You can get something to eat at the Fan Fest. https://gostanford.com/sports/2013/4/17/208445471.aspx

Thank you very much.  We will be up the night before the game at a hotel in the area and then head to Stadium.

[ChicagoCard]

And I don't mean to be a dick, Aztec fan, but San Diego State is just a nuisance Stanford faces before a meaningful game against USC the following week. 

Typical passive-aggressive and most certainly dickish.  

But don't worry, I will apologize on our behalf to our visitor for you.

Well, the Aztec fan was not bothered by what I posted - and earned a lot of my respect for his reply - so why should anyone else be bothered by it?  I was merely expressing the game matchup as honestly as possible.  Others can talk about the game experience, how awesome Stanford is to visit, etc.

No you weren't.

[ChicagoCard]

And I don't mean to be a dick, Aztec fan, but San Diego State is just a nuisance Stanford faces before a meaningful game against USC the following week. 

Typical passive-aggressive and most certainly dickish.  

But don't worry, I will apologize on our behalf to our visitor for you.

Well, the Aztec fan was not bothered by what I posted - and earned a lot of my respect for his reply - so why should anyone else be bothered by it?  I was merely expressing the game matchup as honestly as possible.  Others can talk about the game experience, how awesome Stanford is to visit, etc.

No you weren't.

[SteveAztec]

And I don't mean to be a dick, Aztec fan, but San Diego State is just a nuisance Stanford faces before a meaningful game against USC the following week. 

Typical passive-aggressive and most certainly dickish.  

But don't worry, I will apologize on our behalf to our visitor for you.

Well, the Aztec fan was not bothered by what I posted - and earned a lot of my respect for his reply - so why should anyone else be bothered by it?  I was merely expressing the game matchup as honestly as possible.  Others can talk about the game experience, how awesome Stanford is to visit, etc.

Its all good folks.  I go to nearly the board of every team we play in basketball and football.

I get it and love chatting sports with anybody.

I'm just an old geezer who loves to chat.

[SteveAztec]

And I don't mean to be a dick, Aztec fan, but San Diego State is just a nuisance Stanford faces before a meaningful game against USC the following week. 

Typical passive-aggressive and most certainly dickish.  

But don't worry, I will apologize on our behalf to our visitor for you.

Well, the Aztec fan was not bothered by what I posted - and earned a lot of my respect for his reply - so why should anyone else be bothered by it?  I was merely expressing the game matchup as honestly as possible.  Others can talk about the game experience, how awesome Stanford is to visit, etc.

Its all good folks.  I go to nearly the board of every team we play in basketball and football.

I get it and love chatting sports with anybody.

I'm just an old geezer who loves to chat.

[ChicagoCard]

Turns out that Iowa safety won't be transferring to SDSU. Sorry for the rumor mongering.
Edit: Turns out the transfer is to SDSU as in South Dakota State.

[ChicagoCard]

Turns out that Iowa safety won't be transferring to SDSU. Sorry for the rumor mongering.
Edit: Turns out the transfer is to SDSU as in South Dakota State.

[SteveAztec]

FYI - this is the guy the defense has to contain this year - Juwan Washington. We saw him last year as the backup to Penney.

https://twitter.com/WatchStadium/status/...9784778754

I am anxious to see how Juwan fares this year.  I am usually not a fan of little running back (listed at 5-7 190) but JW has won me over.  He is short but a solid body.  Quick as hell, can run inside a little, and can catch passes out of the backfield.

Also excited to see how the backups do.  As usual the Aztecs will #1 2/3 of the time.  That will be JW...And 1/3 of the carries will go to Chase Jasmin who really impressed me last year.

[SteveAztec]

FYI - this is the guy the defense has to contain this year - Juwan Washington. We saw him last year as the backup to Penney.

https://twitter.com/WatchStadium/status/...9784778754

I am anxious to see how Juwan fares this year.  I am usually not a fan of little running back (listed at 5-7 190) but JW has won me over.  He is short but a solid body.  Quick as hell, can run inside a little, and can catch passes out of the backfield.

Also excited to see how the backups do.  As usual the Aztecs will #1 2/3 of the time.  That will be JW...And 1/3 of the carries will go to Chase Jasmin who really impressed me last year.

[Goose]

This game has the possibility of being very interesting. It has been said that Shaw will treat this as a "preseason" game. However after last year, and with the memory of the Northwestern fiasco in mind, he for sure won't take it lightly. If it is a "preseason" game, do you work on fundamentals (run the ball a lot, don't do anything "fancy"), or do you try all sorts of things to see what else you have? Keep in mind that what we show here USC will prepare for. Do we show a lot of things we don't actually intend to run to make their preparation difficult, or do we play it "simple" to give USC nothing to look at? At the same time, we have to win the game. What does Shaw do? I have no idea. Does he, after all, play it "straight up", with no thought of a "preseason" game? That would be my guess, based on nothing but gut feel.
Also, what happens if both teams are pretty much able to run the ball at will? If the Stanford OL is as good as we think they are, and if our DL isn't quite ready yet, that could happen. Then what? Last possession wins? Naturally, if we can run and SDSU can't, game over. If it is more even, it could get interesting. Lets hope for the former.

[Goose]

This game has the possibility of being very interesting. It has been said that Shaw will treat this as a "preseason" game. However after last year, and with the memory of the Northwestern fiasco in mind, he for sure won't take it lightly. If it is a "preseason" game, do you work on fundamentals (run the ball a lot, don't do anything "fancy"), or do you try all sorts of things to see what else you have? Keep in mind that what we show here USC will prepare for. Do we show a lot of things we don't actually intend to run to make their preparation difficult, or do we play it "simple" to give USC nothing to look at? At the same time, we have to win the game. What does Shaw do? I have no idea. Does he, after all, play it "straight up", with no thought of a "preseason" game? That would be my guess, based on nothing but gut feel.
Also, what happens if both teams are pretty much able to run the ball at will? If the Stanford OL is as good as we think they are, and if our DL isn't quite ready yet, that could happen. Then what? Last possession wins? Naturally, if we can run and SDSU can't, game over. If it is more even, it could get interesting. Lets hope for the former.

[SteveAztec]

Here is Rocky Long Media Day interview...

Funny story.  I hate U of New Mexico and Rocky was the Lobo Coach for a long time.  There is no Head Coach I hated more than Rocky Long.

Now he is the Aztecs most successful Head Coach in the last 20 years.  I seem to have changed my mind on him...Ha.  He is so honest (sometimes to a fault).  He tells the truth and if Aztec fans don't like it, so be it.  I love his interviews...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Q_cRt60...e=youtu.be

[SteveAztec]

Here is Rocky Long Media Day interview...

Funny story.  I hate U of New Mexico and Rocky was the Lobo Coach for a long time.  There is no Head Coach I hated more than Rocky Long.

Now he is the Aztecs most successful Head Coach in the last 20 years.  I seem to have changed my mind on him...Ha.  He is so honest (sometimes to a fault).  He tells the truth and if Aztec fans don't like it, so be it.  I love his interviews...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Q_cRt60...e=youtu.be