The Stanford Cardinal saw all their national championship hopes evaporate against the Oregon Ducks, but they still have plenty to play for as they get ready for the 114th Big Game against their cross-Bay rivals the California Golden Bears. Stanford is still in the top ten of the BCS and could be a potentially attractive team to go to an at-large bowl because of the Andrew Luck factor. However, Stanford must win out first; a loss will probably drop them out of the top 14 they need to qualify as an at-large.
They start with Cal, who they should probably enjoy a sizable advantage against in all areas of the game. Stanford has the better quarterback, the better ground attack, the better offensive line, and potentially the better defense. It's going to be tough for the Golden Bears to really score an upset here, especially if the Cardinal come out motivated and focused to try and retain the Axe.
To discuss the Big Game with Stanford fans, head over to Rule of Tree. To discuss it with Cal fans, head to California Golden Blogs.