Stanford Football: Arcega-Whiteside saves Cardinal from upset threat

PALO ALTO, CA - AUGUST 31: Jj Arcega-Whiteside #19 of the Stanford Cardinal catches the ball for a touchdown while covered by Ron Smith #17 of the San Diego State Aztecs at Stanford Stadium on August 31, 2018 in Palo Alto, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

3 of 4

(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

2. San Diego State is a running back powerhouse, too

First, it was Donnel Pumphrey. Then it was Rashaad Penny. Now it’s Juwan Washington. The running back factory that coach Rocky Long has assembled at San Diego State is bordering on historic.

The first two guys, Pumphrey and Penny, both left the Aztecs with a 2,000-yard season under their belts. Both players received first place Heisman Trophy votes. On a night when last year’s Heisman Trophy runner-up was on the other side of the field, Washington proved he’s more than just any other guy.

A breakout candidate heading into the season, Washington confirmed his worthiness against a stout Stanford defense on Friday. He picked up 158 yards rushing and one touchdown on 24 carries. It was his touchdown in the first quarter that gave San Diego State an early lead and it was his legs that gave San Deigo State any semblance of hope all evening.

This was the most prominent game SDSU is going to play all season. This was Washington’s best chance to make an impression on the national stage. He more than lived up to the hype.

Home/Stanford Cardinal