In a dramatic season opener, the TCU Horned Frogs managed a hard-fought 34-27 victory over Stanford football on Friday. Despite some near-disastrous errors and a challenging game, TCU showcased resilience and strategic prowess to secure the win.
The Horned Frogs outpaced the Cardinal by over 200 yards and had double the tackles for loss, thanks in no small part to quarterback Josh Hoover’s commendable performance. Yet, TCU found themselves trailing for the majority of the game until the final minutes. The game was marred by two turnovers—one in Stanford’s red zone and another deep in their own territory—alongside a missed field goal and seven penalties accumulating 100 yards. Nevertheless, Hoover’s late-game heroics turned the tide in TCU’s favor.
Hoover’s Heroic Drive
With the Horned Frogs down 24-20 and less than seven minutes left on the clock, Hoover orchestrated an impressive drive. He began with a precise 13-yard completion to Jack Bech, followed by a 34-yard gain to JP Richardson, who powered through Stanford defenders. With help from Cam Cook and Savion Williams, TCU advanced to inside the Stanford 10-yard line. Hoover then connected with Bech for the decisive score with 3:13 remaining.
The defense, too, stepped up magnificently. Marcel Brooks sacked Stanford’s Ashton Daniels on third down, and Daniels’ fourth-down pass was incomplete. Cook sealed the victory with an acrobatic seven-yard touchdown, vaulting over a defender with 1:51 left.
Hoover’s Evolution
Year two for Hoover revealed significant development. His performance against Stanford football was exemplary. He completed his first eight passes, initially leveraging Savion Williams to exploit Stanford’s defense. When Stanford adjusted, Hoover seamlessly shifted focus to Jack Bech, who replaced Dylan Wright as the outside receiver. Hoover’s decisions were astute; he avoided unnecessary risks until critical moments, culminating in a stunning 46-yard pass to Bech.
In the first half, Hoover was 18-of-22 for 209 yards, though TCU managed only one touchdown despite his brilliance. He continued his strong performance into the third quarter, driving the ball efficiently and scoring a one-yard touchdown to cut the deficit to 20-17. Though less effective in the second half, Hoover ultimately completed 28 of 42 passes for 353 yards and three touchdowns, including one on the ground.
Defensive Resurgence
The Horned Frogs’ defense showcased a notable transformation under Andy Avalos. It was more aggressive and effective compared to the previous season. The defensive line, with players like Cooper McDonald, exerted relentless pressure, generating six tackles for loss in the first half. JaTravis Broughton, stepping in for Avery Helm, excelled as the lead cornerback, limiting Stanford’s star Elic Ayomanor to a single reception in the first half.
Despite these efforts, TCU struggled with some defensive lapses and penalties, which allowed Stanford to capitalize on several opportunities. Stanford’s quarterback run game proved a particular challenge, with Ashton Daniels rushing for 92 yards. However, as the game progressed, the Horned Frogs’ defense adapted, holding Stanford without a first down in the third quarter and regaining control.
Bech’s Breakthrough Performance
Jack Bech’s performance was a highlight of the game. Initially listed as the second team slot receiver, Bech was a surprising starter over Eric McAlister and Dylan Wright. His impact was immediate, amassing 122 yards on his first four catches, including a 43-yard reception that brought him down at the one-yard line.
Bech’s most crucial play came when he caught a go-ahead touchdown from four yards out with 3:13 remaining. His earlier 13-yard reception had set up the drive that led to the game-winning score.
In conclusion, the TCU Horned Frogs’ victory was a testament to their ability to overcome adversity and capitalize on crucial moments. Hoover’s leadership and Bech’s standout performance were pivotal in securing a hard-earned win on the road against a formidable opponent.