Stanford Football: 5 takeaways from Cardinal in spring 2018

4. Jack Richardson will be strong backup to KJ Costello

When Keller Chryst decided to transfer from Stanford this offseason, David Shaw had to be a little worried about the quarterback position. Yes, he had KJ Costello returning as the next Cardinal star under center, but he had zero healthy scholarship quarterbacks on the roster in spring ball.

Costello was nursing an injury and Jack Richardson, a walk-on, was the only serviceable option during the spring game.

Richardson, a junior, exceeded expectations, passing for 176 yards and two touchdowns on 21-of-30 completions, leading the offense to a win over the defense.

That performance has put Richardson in an interesting position, forcing Shaw’s hand a bit. He has earned himself a scholarship for his performance and he proved he can be a valuable backup to Costello and, if he’s not healthy by fall ball, a potential starting option.

It’s not ideal to rely on a former walk-on under center, but look at just how well Baker Mayfield turned out for Texas Tech and Oklahoma.