Stanford escapes Washington, but both Cardinal and Huskies need to show more

The word I would best use to describe Washington's performance is _____________ because _____________. The word I would best use to describe Stanford's performance is _____________ because _____________.

Roy Stenlund (@roystenlund): The word I would use to describe Washington's performance is expected, because Stanford was expected to win this one. The word I would use to describe Stanford's performance is ouch because they almost gave this one away.

Trace Travers: For Washington, the word is painful. Their offense was painful to watch.

For the Cardinal, the word would be frustrating. Playcalling appears to be an issue, as David Shaw seems to echo the political ethos of Stanford through his conservative playcalling. Ty Montgomery needs to be sprung loose a little more often

Check out the box score. What were the key stats of the game to you?

Roy Stenlund: The stat that blows me away is 179 yards of offense for Washington. Are you kidding me? 98 yards passing and 81 rushing? Wow. Stanford has a great defense, but 179 yards?

Trace Travers: Stanford doubled up the Huskies in yards, 364-179, and only won by 7. They really need to finish drives.

What was the most impressive part of Washington's performance and why? What was the most concerning part of their performance?

Roy Stenlund: Holding Stanford to only 20 points was good.The most concerning part of their performance was only scoring 13 points.

Trace Travers: Staying in the game while being outgained by that much speaks to the effectiveness of Washington's defense while backed up and the ability to cause turnovers. That only helps when you can pull together and score, which Washington couldn't. Plus, botching a PAT. That earns a Keyshawn Johnson "c'mon man"

What was the most impressive part of Stanford's performance and why? What was the most concerning part of their performance?

Roy Stenlund: The most impressive thing about Stanford's performance was their defense. The most concerning was the three turnovers. Cut those out and this was an easy win.

Trace Travers: Allowing 179 yards with the proliferation of the spread offense is almost unheard of and deserves praise. Concerning is, aside from turnovers, that Ty Montgomery didn't get more offensive touches. They have to get the ball in his hands more.

I would grade Washington's September a(n)  ____________________ because __________________________.

Roy Stenlund: I would grade Washington's performance a C, because they haven't shown  any consistency yet.

Trace Travers: I'll give them an A for acceptable in Harry Potter grading. 4-1 with the one loss being to Stanford is ok, but the Huskies need to be consistent in order to win some games in a dangerous conference.

I would grade Stanford's September a(n)  ____________________ because __________________________.

Roy Stenlund: I would grade Stanford's September performance an  A- , because one close loss to USC is the only blemish on their record.

Trace Travers: I'll go with an E for exceeds expectations, but that's an O for outstanding due to grade inflation at Stanford. They should have beaten USC, and otherwise they've taken care of business pretty well.