Stanford Football: 5 reasons the Cardinal defeat Oregon

PALO ALTO, CA - AUGUST 31: Head coach David Shaw of the Stanford Cardinal talks with K.J. Costello #3 after the Cardinal scored a touchdown against the San Diego State Aztecs at Stanford Stadium on August 31, 2018 in Palo Alto, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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K.J. Costello

In 2017, the Stanford offense averaged over 200 rushing yards a game but have dropped well below that, in the Cardinal’s first three games, averaging slightly above 115 yards per game. But the biggest reason for their 3-0 start, that includes a win over USC is quarterback K.J. Costello.

Costello is off to a hot start in 2018. Through the first three weeks of the season, Costello has thrown for 729 yards and seven touchdowns, with both being at the halfway mark of his totals in 11 games last year.

In Stanford’s win over USC, Costello had a QBR of 71.1, throwing for 183 yards and one touchdown, completing just under 60 percent of his throws. Costello has eliminated any talks of being a game manager and has proved himself as an x-factor in the Cardinal’s offense. And with Oregon’s defense shutting down the run so far this year, he’ll look to step up and deliver the Stanford faithful another win.

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