Stanford will host Cal Poly on Saturday in a bid to secure their first home win under head coach Troy Taylor. The Cardinal (0-1) lost their season opener to TCU, 34-27, extending their home losing streak to eight games dating back to last season. Stanford’s last home victory occurred in 2022, and the team’s struggles at home include a notable 30-23 defeat last year to Sacramento State, a team Taylor previously coached. Acknowledging their struggles, Taylor emphasized the competitiveness of FCS football and the impact of the transfer portal, which allows teams to quickly build strong rosters. “We lost to an FCS team last year,” Taylor reminded, underscoring that the team is not underestimating Cal Poly.
Cal Poly, from the Big Sky Conference like Sacramento State, is not considered as strong a contender. Under coach Paul Wulff, the Mustangs (0-1) have been trying to improve but have not had a winning season since 2016. Last year, they finished 3-8, but Wulff is optimistic that his team is becoming more competitive. He stated that they have been developing the program and feel ready to surprise some opponents this season.
Cal Poly’s 2024 season began with a 27-21 loss to San Diego. Although a 36-yard fumble return for a touchdown by Budha Boyd Jr. gave the Mustangs the lead early in the second half, they were ultimately overwhelmed as San Diego scored 17 unanswered points. Cal Poly’s quarterback Bo Kelly struggled, throwing three interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns. Backup quarterback Jackson Akins entered late in the game and managed to throw a touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. Cal Poly’s defensive ability to capitalize on turnovers could be crucial in Saturday’s game.
Stanford, despite its opening loss, showed improvements on defense. Jay Green and David Bailey forced fumbles against TCU, and Taylor praised the defense’s growth compared to last year. On offense, quarterback Ashton Daniels had a mixed performance in the season opener. While he rushed for 89 yards and threw for a touchdown, his passing stats were less impressive, completing just 17 of 35 attempts for 163 yards and taking four sacks. Stanford’s offensive line will need to provide better protection against Cal Poly’s star defensive player, Elijah Ponder, who recorded 10 sacks in 2023, ranking sixth in the FCS.
The matchup offers Stanford a chance to end its home losing streak, but the team will need to overcome Cal Poly’s improving defense and avoid turnovers to secure a much-needed win.
