The Stanford Cardinal got off to a slow start in Pullman, Washington against the Washington State Cougars, but WSU mistakes have provided Stanford enough opportunities to secure a ten-point lead midway through the second quarter. Jeremy Stewart capped off a shortened field drive with a one yard touchdown run on fourth down to give Stanford a 10-0 lead.
The Stewart touchdown was set up by a Jared Karstetter fumble after a catch. In the first quarter, Stanford had recovered what appeared to be a Karstetter fumble, but a booth-called review resulted in a ruling of incomplete pass. WSU eventually punted and Stanford had to settle for a field goal on that drive. The second Karstetter dropped ball was upheld on review and Stanford then moved 20 yards on seven plays, capped by the 4th and 1 plunge up the middle.
It has not been a particularly pretty game thus far as the Cardinal have struggled against a physical WSU secondary. Leading receiver Chris Owusu was knocked out in the first quarter on a monster hit by safety Casey Locker. Owusu has yet to return. Andrew Luck threw only his third interception of the season earlier in the quarter and has not gotten into much of a rhythm. He is 6-of-10 for 48 yards but has overthrown a couple deep balls to wide open receivers.
As we get to five minutes left in the second quarter, Stepfan Taylor was taken down on a run and appeared to fumble the ball. The Cougars take over just inside Stanford territory.
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