Stanford Football: 5 bold predictions for Alamo Bowl vs. TCU

2. Stanford will figure out Kenny Hill after a big TCU first half

This game could end up looking a lot like the Alamo Bowl two seasons ago. This time, however, TCU is likely going to play the role of Oregon rather than follow in their predecessor’s footsteps. Stanford’s defense will take some time to get up to speed, and Kenny Hill is going to come out playing strong in the first half to stake out an early lead for the Horned Frogs.

Look for the Texas A&M transfer to do damage against the Cardinal with both his arm and his legs. Hill will put up three total touchdowns in the first half, passing for a couple and running in a score. Like the Ducks two years ago, it will seem like TCU is ready to run away with victory.

Stanford, however, will make some brilliant halftime adjustments. The Cardinal will begin to crack the Horned Frogs offensive line, pressuring Hill and preventing him from utilizing his mobility to full advantage. As a result, TCU’s only points in the second half will come from either a defensive score or a special-teams play.

As he has before, Hill will struggle to put away a win after building up a lead. Though the blame won’t rest entirely with the quarterback, Hill will take plenty of heat for TCU’s failure to keep up after the intermission. But the credit will go to a Stanford defense that shores up its vulnerabilities when it matters most.