Stanford QB Ashton Daniels shines in debut

Stanford's new starting quarterback Ashton Daniels was ready for the moment

The entire offseason there was one major question circling the Stanford football program. Who would be the starting quarterback for Troy Taylor.

He inherited Ari Patu and Ashton Daniels who both had seen limited action in their time on the Farm, and also brought in a four-star freshman in Myles Jackson and a transfer from Syracuse in Justin Lamson. None of the quarterbacks had significant experience at the college level, but it was Daniels who was able to win the job.

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Stanford fans had only known him as a wildcat quarterback and emergency running back due to the fact Tanner McKee was leading the charge last season, but he formally introduced himself during Thursday's victory over Hawai'i. Throughout spring and fall camp, Taylor iterated constantly that whoever wins the job was the most accurate and made the best decisions.

It was clear on Thursday why Daniels won the job. He completed 25-of-36 passes (69%) for 249 yards and two touchdowns, and showcased his arm strength and understanding of this new offense. 

Take a look at his two touchdown passes!

🎯🎯🎯 pic.twitter.com/0mFx4R4NIY

— Inside The Stanford Cardinal (@InsideStanford) September 2, 2023

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What a play 🥲 pic.twitter.com/w4kYLU3OWH

— Inside The Stanford Cardinal (@InsideStanford) September 2, 2023

As a recruit, Daniels was ranked as a three-star out of Buford, Georgia. He led his high school team to a AAAAAA state title, and was named MVP of state title game. He chose Stanford over programs like Duke, Harvard and North Dakota State. 

He is officially 1-0 as a starter and will have a huge test in Week 2 as the Cardinal are set to head South to take on USC.