Stanford QB Status Uncertain Ahead of No. 9 Miami Showdown

UPDATE: Stanford University faces a critical challenge as they prepare to visit the No. 9 Miami Hurricanes this Saturday at 4 p.m. (local time) on ESPN. The team may enter the game without their starting quarterback, Ben Gulbranson, due to a knee injury sustained in last week’s thrilling 20-13 victory over Florida State.

Redshirt freshman Elijah Brown met with reporters earlier this week, signaling he could be making his first start of the season against the formidable Hurricanes, who are currently favored by 30.5 points. Brown stepped in last Saturday after Gulbranson was injured in the second quarter, completing 6 of 12 passes for 71 yards and helping secure an upset victory.

“I think just keeping a level head and just staying the course is the key to that win,” Brown stated, reflecting on his unexpected role. “I had a lot of help over the week, just picking Ben’s brain on what kind of looks we’re getting and where I should go with the ball.” His leadership led to a crucial 94-yard touchdown drive in the third quarter, but the Cardinal struggled to maintain momentum in the fourth quarter, gaining only 25 yards across four possessions.

During a press conference on Monday, interim coach Frank Reich was tight-lipped about Gulbranson’s condition, stating, “You know, if I have something, I’m not afraid to give it to you guys. But as of right now, I’m really not prepared with anything.” This leaves Stanford fans anxious as they await news on whether Gulbranson will be healthy enough to play against a Miami defense that boasts the best points allowed average in the ACC at 15.3 points per game.

Miami, despite a recent loss to Louisville, has already secured impressive victories over teams like Notre Dame and Florida. Stanford will need every advantage to tackle this powerhouse, especially if they are without their starting quarterback.

Gulbranson, who transferred from Oregon State, had shown promise earlier in the season with 1,008 passing yards, 5 touchdowns, and just 1 interception in three games leading up to the injury. Brown’s previous experience includes a start last season, where he completed 16 of 32 passes for 153 yards, but the outcome was far from favorable in a 40-10 loss to SMU.

“Obviously, last year when I got in, it didn’t really go our way,” Brown reflected. “But you just have to keep moving forward, keep playing the next play, and stay the course.” The urgency for Stanford has never been greater as they prepare for one of the most pivotal matchups of the season.

Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this situation unfolds. As the game approaches, all eyes will be on Stanford’s quarterback situation and whether they can pull off another upset against the high-flying Miami Hurricanes.