UCLA Bruins at Stanford Cardinal: Offensive efficiency key for Stanford

The 4-1 Stanford Cardinal had the weekend off after a big win against Arizona the prior weekend. However, all attention is on their Thursday night Pac-12 showdown against #18 UCLA.

UCLA also enters the game at 4-1 and have looked formidable thus far this season. They have been lead by their true freshman Quarterback Josh Rosen, who started off the season scorching hot, but has cooled down a bit. Still Rosen has showed poise for a freshman and has his team fairing well in a highly competitive Pac-12.

Rosen will have to do a lot to keep up with Senior Quarterback Kevin Hogan, who has been extremely sharp and playing his best football of the season. Hogan was surgical in the last outing against Arizona completely 17 of 19 passes for 217 yards and 2 touchdowns, showing much poise and presence in the pocket. It was not his highest output in terms of production, but his efficiency has proven key for the Cardinal offensive attack.

The Cardinal ground attack has also been clicking on all cylinders. RB Christian McCaffrey has been elusive and the offensive line has been opening up some homes for him. Running the ball and controlling the time of possession against a depleted UCLA defense will be critical for Stanford in this matchup against the Bruins.