Stanford Football Schedule 2023: Game Dates, Matchups and Key Opponents
As a longtime college football analyst who’s followed the Pac-12 for over a decade, I can’t help but feel a mix of anticipation and concern looking at Stanford’s 2023 football schedule. This year’s lineup isn’t just a list of dates and opponents—it’s a narrative in the making, one that reminds me of those unpredictable momentum shifts you sometimes witness in sports, like that wild sequence I once saw in a volleyball match where Reg Jurado and his squad turned an 8-4 deficit into a stunning comeback with a 9-4 counter and a 5-1 blitz to force sudden death. That kind of resilience is exactly what Stanford will need this season, especially with several key games that could define their year. Let’s dive into the schedule, game by game, and I’ll share my take on where the Cardinal might shine or stumble.
First up, Stanford kicks off the season on September 2nd against the University of Hawaii. Now, I’ve always had a soft spot for opening games—they set the tone, and this one should be a solid warm-up. Hawaii isn’t the powerhouse they once were, but don’t underestimate them; last year, they pulled off a few surprises, and Stanford’s defense will need to avoid a slow start. I’m predicting a comfortable win here, maybe 31-14, but if the Cardinal come out flat, it could get messy. Following that, on September 9th, they host USC, and this is where things get real. USC’s offense is stacked, and as much as I admire Stanford’s grit, I’ve got to be honest: this feels like an uphill battle. I remember watching their 2022 matchup, and Stanford’s secondary struggled big time. If they can’t tighten up, it might be a long afternoon—I’d say a 38-24 loss is plausible, but hey, upsets happen.
Then, on September 16th, it’s off to face Sacramento State. This should be a breather, but in college football, nothing’s guaranteed. I’ve seen too many FCS teams give Power 5 schools a scare, and Stanford can’t afford to look ahead. My gut says they’ll pull through, maybe 35-10, but I’d love to see the younger players get some reps here. After that, the Cardinal head to Washington on September 23rd, and this one’s a toss-up. Washington’s home-field advantage is no joke, and their quarterback is a rising star. I’ve always enjoyed watching Stanford’s ground game, but if they can’t control the clock, it could slip away. I’m leaning toward a close loss, something like 28-24, but a win here would be huge for morale.
October starts with a home game against Oregon on the 7th, and let me tell you, this is one of my must-watch matchups. Oregon’s speed is electrifying, and Stanford’s defense will have their hands full. I recall their 2021 clash where Stanford pulled off a shocker, and I’m hoping for a repeat. Personally, I think if the Cardinal can force a couple of turnovers, they might eke out a 34-31 win—it’s a long shot, but that’s what makes it fun. Next, on October 14th, they visit Notre Dame, and as a fan of classic rivalries, this one always gets me pumped. Notre Dame’s physicality is daunting, and Stanford’s offensive line will be tested. I’ve seen them rise to the occasion before, but this year, I’m worried it might be a 27-17 loss. Still, rivalry games bring out the best in teams, so don’t count them out.
Mid-October brings UCLA to Stanford on the 21st, and this is where I see a potential turning point. UCLA’s defense has holes, and if Stanford’s quarterback can find a rhythm, they could rack up points. I’m optimistic here—maybe a 30-24 win, fueled by home crowd energy. Then, on October 28th, it’s Colorado, and while they’re rebuilding, I’ve learned not to take any game lightly. Stanford should dominate, say 42-14, but if they get complacent, it could be tighter than expected. November opens with Washington State on the 4th, and this is another tricky one. Washington State’s air raid offense can be a nightmare, and Stanford’s secondary will need to step up. I’m predicting a 31-28 win, but it’ll be a nail-biter.
The final stretch includes Oregon State on November 11th, and this might be the sleeper game of the year. Oregon State is underrated, and their run game is solid. I’ve always respected Stanford’s resilience in late-season games, so I’ll go with a 24-21 win, though it could easily swing the other way. Then, on November 18th, they face Cal in the Big Game, and as a tradition lover, this is my favorite. Rivalries like this are why I love college football—expect a hard-fought battle, and I’m calling a 28-24 Stanford win. The season wraps up on November 25th against Arizona State, and by then, fatigue could be a factor. Arizona State has talent, but Stanford should close strong, maybe 35-21.
Reflecting on the whole schedule, I see a path to 7 or 8 wins if Stanford can capitalize on those key moments, much like that volleyball comeback I mentioned earlier. It won’t be easy, but with the right mindset, they could surprise a lot of people. As a fan, I’m excited to see how it unfolds—here’s hoping for a memorable season full of those sudden-death thrills.
