Stanford Cardinal
2000 overall record: 5-6
Conference record: 4-4 (4th)
Returning starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 7
Kickers: 2
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Kerry Carter* (729 yds)
Passing: Randy Fasani* (1,400 yds)
Receiving: DeRonnie Pitts (882 yds)
Tackles: Coy Wire* (81)
Sacks: Riall Johnson (15)
Interceptions: Tank Williams*, Ryan Fernandez*, Brian Taylor* and Aaron Focht (3 each)
What's new
What's not new is a far more encouraging thought for the Cardinal, which return their entire offensive line and offensive backfield. Offense tends to win games in the Pac-10, and the Cardinal will have the firepower to do so if they can find a few receivers.
Battling it out
Only star receiver DeRonnie Pitts is gone, but both wideout spots are up for grabs going into the fall. Ryan Wells started seven games last year and has a good shot at starting again. Luke Powell has great speed and provides a deep threat for the offense, while Jamien McCullum and Caleb Bowman have also proven to be reliable. Interestingly, the only TD catches made in the spring game were both by backup Teyo Johnson, who saw time at wide receiver.
Eye catcher: OT Kwame Harris
Harris played a little bit in 2000 and was the only true freshman to letter for Stanford last year. He will likely be the starter at right tackle after an excellent spring. Both starting tackles return from last season, but one will likely be moved to guard to make room for Harris in the starting lineup.
Budding star: FS Tank Williams
Williams was a 2nd team All-Pac-10 selection last year but has shown the ability to achieve much more this season. He is a very big free safety at 6-3, 225 pounds and has great speed for his size. He is a big hitter, covers a lot of ground and plays well in the spotlight (11 tackles and an interception in The Big Game vs. Cal).
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
