Let's face it; David Shaw is nothing short of disappointed with Stanford's 8-5 finish (second in Pac-12 North) last season especially with a top-tier defense.
Shaw and the rest of his team will have to make a statement this season, unfortunately for Pat Fitzgerald, that'll be on his Northwestern Wildcats.
Not only will The Cardinal win Saturday, they will comfortably and control the full game without struggle.
Here are a few reasons why Stanford will easily succeed:
Kevin Hogan will significantly outplay Clayton Thorson
Not only is Hogan the all-around better player, Thorson, being out of organized football for almost two years, is going to show some rust.