On Friday, September 1st, 2023, the closing matchup features the Stanford Cardinal taking on the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors in a road game. The Stanford Cardinal are launching their 2023 season with this game, while Hawaii arrives following a road defeat against Vanderbilt in Week One.
The previous season posed significant challenges for the Cardinal, marking David Shaw’s final 12-season tenure. Struggling notably, they clinched only 3 victories out of 12 attempts, with a disappointing 1-8 record in Pac-12 competition.
Similarly, Hawaii faced a demanding season, achieving a 3-10 record, including a 2-6 standing in the Mountain West Conference. Let’s take a look at our Stanford vs Hawai’i best bets:
Stanford Cardinal vs. Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors Information
Before our Stanford vs Hawai’i best bets, here is some information on the game:
Stanford Cardinal vs Hawaii Rainbow Warriors
Location of the game: Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex. Honolulu, HI.
Date & Time: Friday, September 1st. 8:00 pm PT
How to watch: CBS Sports Network
Recent Scores
The last time these two teams played was December 2nd, 1972, with Stanford winning 39-7 over Hawaii
Stanford Cardinal vs. Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors Analysis
In 2022, Stanford’s performance across various aspects of the game left much to be desired, deviating from the university’s historical football prowess. The arrival of Troy Taylor, who spent the past four years elevating the Sacramento State program, brings a new direction to the team. The responsibility of quarterbacking falls upon redshirt sophomore Ari Patu.
In the preceding season, his record stood at 6 of 9 completions for 65 yards and two touchdowns, primarily serving as backup to Tanner McKee. The Stanford Cardinal football odds in 2022 were not good, but 2023 appears to be an upgrade.
The Cardinal ground game has faced challenges in recent times. E.J. Smith, however, is a hopeful prospect for Stanford’s offensive strategy. Despite limited appearances last season (30 rushes for 206 yards and 3 touchdowns), the coaching staff aspires to develop Smith’s potential. Casey Filkins and Jacob Lowe might also share the running load.
Stanford’s journey begins with the opportunity for a Week One victory, only to encounter a challenging Week 2 road game against USC. A significant subplot emerges in Week 3 when they face Sacramento State, a clash where Taylor reunites with his former team, adding intrigue to the mix.
Rainbow Warriors’ Rollercoaster
In their Nashville outing, Hawaii engaged in a closely contested battle that ultimately resulted in a 35-28 defeat, leaving them 0-1 for the season. Brayden Schager’s performance behind center for the Rainbow Warriors showcased a mix of successes and setbacks.
He connected on 27 of 35 passes, amassing over 350 yards and tossing three touchdowns. However, the game was marred by two costly interceptions that played a pivotal role in the loss.
Among Schager’s prime targets, Pofele Ashlock shone brightly, securing 7 receptions for an impressive 127 yards along with a touchdown. Steven McBride’s contribution was noteworthy as well, crossing the end zone twice and finishing just two yards shy of a 100-yard game.
Regrettably, the run game struggled to make an impact for the Rainbow Warriors. Despite four players receiving carries, they collectively managed a mere 40 yards on 25 attempts. To stand strong in crucial matches, Hawaii must enhance its running game.
Landon Sims leads the running back lineup, concluding with 38 yards, highlighted by a pivotal 22-yard run. Hawaii Rainbow Warriors football results will be interesting this season after seeing them compete in Week One.
Odds Breakdown
Before we give one of our favorite College Football predictions, here are the latest College Football odds:
- Moneyline: Stanford Cardinal -175, Hawaii Rainbow Warriors +145
- Spread: Stanford Cardinal -3.5, Hawaii Rainbow Warriors +3.5
- Total: 58.5
Stanford Cardinal vs. Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors Betting Pick and Prediction
Embarking on an away game always presents a formidable challenge, particularly when involving a lengthy flight, shifting time zones, and acclimating to new surroundings against a team that has already seen action.
Hawaii’s recent showing against Vanderbilt showcased a commendable effort, indicating that the Stanford Cardinal shouldn’t underestimate their opponents. However, the scales tip in favor of Stanford’s superior talent. A discernible disparity in skill and capability makes the Cardinal the likely victors in this contest.
Considering the balanced competition and Hawaii’s resilience in the Vanderbilt matchup, the game could well be a close-fought encounter. Yet, when evaluating the overall prowess of Stanford’s roster, they seem poised to secure victory by a margin of about a touchdown. This prediction suggests that Stanford’s multifaceted strengths will ultimately outshine Hawaii’s determined efforts.
- Our Stanford vs Hawai’i best bets: Cardinal with a -3.5 point spread could prove a wise choice.
The combination of Stanford’s enhanced talent and strategic edge positions them to emerge triumphant in what promises to be a closely contested showdown against the Rainbow Warriors. We are looking forward to this game and all the College Football scores!
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