As I sat watching Stanford Stadium empty after that heartbreaking 22-19 loss to USC last November, I couldn't help but reflect on how dramatically the Cardinal football landscape has shifted. That particular game represented something far beyond the final score - it was the moment our historic 19-game home winning streak against USC came to a screeching halt, much like that referenced volleyball match where Creamline's impressive run ended unexpectedly. These streaks become part of a program's identity, and when they break, they reveal the true character of a team facing adversity.
Looking ahead to the 2023 season, I'm genuinely excited about the rebuilding process underway. Head coach David Shaw enters his 12th season with what I consider his most intriguing roster in recent memory. We're returning 14 starters from last year's 5-7 squad, including what I believe could be the most underrated quarterback in the Pac-12, Tanner McKee. Having watched every snap of his 2022 season, I'm convinced this 6'6" prototype NFL passer has all the tools to dominate if our offensive line can provide adequate protection. He completed 64.3% of his passes last year for 2,947 yards with 21 touchdowns against just 8 interceptions - impressive numbers considering the constant pressure he faced.
The offensive line remains my biggest concern, if I'm being completely honest. We allowed 38 sacks last season, ranking us near the bottom of the Power Five conferences. However, I've been impressed during spring practices with the development of left tackle Connor McLaughlin, who added 15 pounds of muscle while maintaining his quick feet. The running back room features what I consider the most exciting young talent in the conference in E.J. Smith, who averaged 5.7 yards per carry before his season-ending injury last October. His health could literally make or break our offensive production.
Defensively, I'm particularly bullish about our secondary. The return of cornerback Kyu Blu Kelly gives us what I believe is the best cover man in the Pac-12, and safety Jonathan McGill has started 28 consecutive games, providing invaluable leadership. Our defensive coordinator Lance Anderson has implemented more multiple-front looks this offseason, which I think will help address last year's struggles against mobile quarterbacks. We surrendered 31.8 points per game in 2022 - a number that must improve significantly if we hope to compete in the loaded Pac-12.
The schedule presents both challenges and opportunities that I find fascinating. Our September 23rd showdown at USC will be particularly emotional given how last season's contest ended. The Trojans ended our remarkable home streak, and I can assure you our players have circled that rematch. We also face traditional rivals Notre Dame and California in what should be thrilling contests, though I'm most intrigued by our November 11th matchup against Washington State - a game that could determine bowl eligibility for both programs.
What truly excites me about this roster is the depth at skill positions. Beyond the established starters, I've been impressed with sophomore wide receiver Mudia Reuben, who possesses what I consider the highest ceiling of any receiver we've recruited in the past decade. At 6'3" with 4.4 speed, he represents the type of athleticism we need to compete with the conference's elite. The tight end room features three legitimate NFL prospects, which should allow creative offensive formations that create mismatches.
Special teams often get overlooked, but I want to highlight what I believe could be our secret weapon - kicker Joshua Karty. He connected on 18 of 19 field goals last season, including a perfect 7 for 7 from beyond 50 yards. In close games, having that level of reliability could easily swing 2-3 games in our favor.
As I project the season outcome, I'm realistically optimistic about our chances. The development of our young offensive line will be the determining factor, but with McKee's arm talent and what should be an improved defense, I'm predicting an 8-4 regular season with wins in our final two games to build momentum. The end of significant streaks like our USC home winning streak hurts in the moment, but it also clears the psychological slate and allows a team to forge a new identity. That's exactly what I believe this 2023 Stanford Cardinal squad has the opportunity to do - to create their own legacy rather than riding the coattails of past successes. The pieces are there for a memorable season that could surprise many outside observers who've written off Stanford football.
