Stanford Football: 3 bold predictions vs. Northwestern in Week 1

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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – NOVEMBER 17: Trey Pugh #80 of the Northwestern Wildcats congratulates teammate Isaiah Bowser #25 on scoring a touchdown against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first quarter of the game at TCFBank Stadium on November 17, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Northwestern defeated Minnesota 24-14. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

2. There will be plenty of points — might want to take the over

The over/under for this game is 49 points. Take the over.

Both teams are traditionally sound on defense, and that won’t change this season although both come into this season with some pressing question marks.

In Palo Alto, the Cardinal need to rediscover their identity defensively. They were decent, but not special on defense. You didn’t see that Solomon Thomas-type player on the defensive line. The pass rush was good, and the corners were good, but it’s a head-scratcher how they gave up 410 yards per game and 264 in the air. If that’s how they start the year, the Wildcats will put up some points.

You aren’t going to find a defense filled with four and five-star recruits, but you will see one that is well-coached, prepared and developed. Why wouldn’t you? Their head coach is a former linebacker.

However, both the Cardinal and the Wildcats are facing offenses that are just that much better.

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