STANFORD, Calif. – As Stanford readies for its season opener against San Diego State on Aug. 31, here are on-and off-field changes to look for as the team looks to defend its Pac-12 North Division title.
On the coaching front, Kevin Carberry (Ohio '05) has joined head coach David Shaw's staff as the offensive line coach. Also new are Bobby Kennedy (Northern Arizona '89), who will oversee wide receivers, and Jim Dray (Stanford '10), a former Cardinal standout tight end, who will serve as an offensive assistant.
In addition, former Stanford quarterback Tavita Pritchard ('09), has been promoted to Andrew Luck Director of Offense, and will also work with the quarterbacks.
Uniforms
Cardinal home and away jerseys now feature black borders around the numbers. Two-inch numbers will replace the red circles on the back of helmets.
New Numbers
Cornerback Treyjohn Butler has switched from No. 6 to No. 8; wide receiver Osiris St. Brown from No. 81 to No. 9; defensive lineman Dalyn Wade-Perry from No. 50 to No. 24; and cornerback Paulson Adebo from No. 17 to No 11.
Notable NCAA Changes
• On kickoffs, the receiving team can fair catch behind its 25-yard-line and the ball will be treated like a touchback and placed at the 25.
• To help speed up games, the 40-second play clock will start after touchdowns and kicks.
• The NCAA redshirt rule has been modified. Players may now participate in any four games throughout the year, without losing a year of eligibility. The previous rule stated that if a player appeared in any game, even for one play, it would count as a year of eligibility.
Stadium Enhancements
• After the San Jose Earthquakes-Los Angeles Galaxy soccer game on June 30, the Stanford Stadium turf was completely replaced in anticipation of the 2018 season.
• New antennas have been installed throughout Stanford Stadium for quicker internet coverage.
• The Gate 4 restrooms have been remodeled.
• Metal detectors have been added at every gate to ensure a safe and fan-friendly environment.
Local Knowledge
Gamedays, a 2018 yearbook packed with scouting reports, player profiles, statistics, records, photographs and features, is available in Section 120 at the Bookstore Shop for $10. It can also be purchased at the trailers outside Fan Fest and the tailgating area on Galvez Street, the Stanford Bookstore, the Stanford Mall, and the Athletic Shop.
Food Additions
Many concession stands will offer new menu items and value combinations. They include acai and grain bowls, pho and laksa, plus fruit-infused spa water (on the main concourse above Section 102); Thai noodle and chicken tarragon salads; house-made turkey and chicken wraps and snack boxes (108); an assortment of beignets, along with cold-brewed coffee, affogato, and kombucha (113); and hand-rolled sushi selections (113).
A stadium concessions map and more menu details are available at concessions.stanford.edu. A printed copy can be obtained at any concession location on gameday.
Waste Trailers/Recycling
Labeled, central waste trailers will be placed throughout the tailgating lots for convenience and easier disposal of compostable items.
