Stanford Football: 5 reasons the Cardinal defeats USC

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 27: Stanford Cardinal celebrate winning the College Football Sydney Cup match between Stanford University (Stanford Cardinal) and Rice University (Rice Owls) at Allianz Stadium on August 27, 2017 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Matt King/Getty Images) /

1. Keller Chryst does not turn the ball over

Senior quarterback Keller Chryst proved in 2016 that he can take care of the football and play a larger role behind center than just “game manager”. Once again, he did not throw a single interception in the Rice victory.

Chryst faces the quarterback that had the highest expectations of anyone in the country in Sam Darnold. He’ll be in an underdog role once more. Fans will still expect Darnold to rebound and outplay Chryst. USC could end up regretting that.

The USC secondary played well in Week 1. Star cornerback Iman Marshall is tasked with shutting down Stanford’s top receiver, whether that be freshman Connor Wedington or junior Trent Irwin, in this game.

Chryst is one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the PAC-12. It could take a big performance in the national spotlight for the college football world to recognize Chryst. He has a huge opportunity to make a name for himself.

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