Stanford at Washington – Preview and Prediction
WASHINGTON 3 STANFORD (44)
Implied Projected Score: Washington 23.5 Stanford 20.5
MEGALOCKS LINE – Washington 3
The Game
The two favorites in the PAC 12 North go head-to-head Friday night in what should be a fantastic game. Washington is 4-0 after escaping with an OT win over Arizona on the road. This week they have a home date with undefeated Stanford who most recently came up with a dramatic 4th quarter win over UCLA on the road.
The Match-Up
Washington offense vs Stanford defense
The Huskies have been very balanced on offense this season, although to be fair, they have not played a good defense yet, let alone an excellent defense like the one Stanford brings to the table. Jake Browning is ranked 3rd in the FBS in passing efficiency (194.9) and the WR group has been a really nice surprise. They also feature a former 1,300 yard RB (Myles Gaskin) and a budding star in Lavon Coleman who is averaging over 9 yards per carry in limited duty in 2016. We think he is going to be a bigger part of their game plans moving forward starting this week.
The Cardinal have played great defense so far but this week will be their biggest test. Kansas St does not have a dynamic offense. USC had Browne at QB. UCLA has a really good QB but not much at RB or WR. The Huskies are going to provide some challenges with their speed. Stanford is ranked 2nd in the PAC 12 in sacks and the Huskies gave up 4 of them last week. They need to get PENETRATION to keep the Huskies behind the chains.
Stanford offense vs Washington defense
What can you say about Stanford ? They are amazing. They just play smart football, pound you into submission and find a way to win. They looked beat last week at UCLA and came up with a wonderful drive to win the game late. Christian McCaffrey has not dazzled us with all kinds of TDs yet this season but he is still one of the most dangerous players in college football. McCaffrey has over 400 yards rushing in three games against good competition and also leads the team in receptions.
The Huskies defense was lit up last week for over 300 yards on the ground but this week they do not face a dangerous running threat like they did in Arizona (QB Dawkins 176 yards rushing). Stanford is going to get their yards on the ground like they do every week. They will have to hit some plays in the passing game or it will be very difficult to win this game.
MEGA Mini-Bites
Stanford is coming off a physical game vs UCLA and you should keep an eye on the injury report as both starting CBs are questionable…..Stanford has won 8 of the last 10 games between these two teams……The under is 9-3 L12 in the series.
Summary
This seems like a good spot for the Huskies. At some point, we have to believe that a team with a good defense and more balanced offense can take care of Stanford, but it easier said than done.
Conclusion
Official play: Washington -3 -110 (SENT OUT 9:32 AM WED)
Do not play higher than -3 -125