John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
Stanford University's football team is set to host Southern Methodist University (SMU) at Stanford Stadium on Saturday night. The game, scheduled for a 5 p.m. PT kickoff, will be broadcast on the ACC Network. This matchup marks the beginning of an annual rivalry between the two teams, both new members of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 2024.
The rivalry will see Stanford and SMU facing off each season, alternating locations between Stanford and Dallas. After spending much of their recent schedule in the Eastern time zone, Stanford will play five of its final six games in the Bay Area. The only remaining away game outside Northern California is against NC State on November 2.
Stanford's performance has shown improvement compared to last year. The defense has reduced its allowed yards per game by nearly 85 yards, with significant gains in ground defense—over 50 yards better than in 2023. Improvements are also noted in red zone and third down defenses. Offensively, Stanford is gaining over 30 more rushing yards per game and ranks within the top 20 nationally for time of possession.
Coach Taylor's strategy has emphasized stopping opponents' run games. Since the start of the 2023 season, Stanford has limited opponents to an average of just 36.4 rushing yards per game during victories.
Young players have been key contributors this season. Freshman running back Chris Davis Jr. leads with 233 rushing yards across his first five collegiate games. Underclassmen Elic Ayomanor and Ismael Cisse have combined for 51 receptions, totaling 548 yards and five touchdowns.
In line with their focus on youth development, eleven Cardinal players have made their first collegiate starts this year—a figure that ties for eleventh most in FBS and leads the ACC.
This weekend at Stanford includes various events beyond football. On Friday night, Stanford Athletics will induct its 2024 Hall of Fame Class, featuring former football standout Stepfán Taylor. Additionally, the ACC Huddle crew will make its debut appearance at Stanford.
The information was initially released by Stanford Athletics.
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