Count Derrick Fox among those who wouldn't mind seeing Stanford shut out of the BCS and in San Antonio on December 29. Fox is the executive director of the Valero Alamo Bowl, which could welcome its first 11-win team to the River City in 12 years.
In 1998, previously unbeaten Kansas State lost the Big 12 Championship Game to Texas A&M. While the Michael Bishop-led Wildcats ended the regular season ranked No. 3 in the BCS standings, they were passed over for an at-large BCS bid in favor of Ohio State and two-loss Florida. Bill Snyder's squad wound up in San Antonio, where they faced Purdue.
The Boilermakers led 27-13 after three quarters, and just when it seemed the Wildcats had no interest in being there, they launched a furious rally to take a 34-30 lead. But Purdue quarterback Drew Brees brought Kansas State's season to an even more bitter end, leading an 80-yard touchdown drive in the final minute of the Boilermakers' 37-34 upset. The following year, the BCS introduced the "Kansas State Rule," which ensured a team from a BCS conference in Kansas State's position would not be snubbed again.
As many astute commenters have pointed out, Stanford is still a 10-win team. This BCS and Rose Bowl speculation is fun, but it's moot if the Cardinal doesn't win Saturday. I'll turn the attention to Oregon State tomorrow. In the meantime, here are a few links to get you through the night.
TCU fans ponder the harsh reality that the Horned Frogs could finish No. 3 in the BCS standings and not receive an invite to a BCS bowl. Kansas State once felt your pain. | Spit Blood
Boise State is poised to pass TCU in the BCS standing if the Broncos survive Friday's road test at Nevada. | One Bronco Nation Under God
If you read only one more recap of the Big Game, read this. It makes a great bedtime story. | Go Mighty Card