No. 2 Stanford beats No. 6 Texas at home

Stanford and Texas’ 2024 campaigns have so far gone in opposite directions.

Although it’s still early in the season, here’s a look at what a win could mean for each team’s future.

Stanford: An argument for No. 1

With a top-five finish in the preseason, the Cardinals were expected to have a great season, and with an undefeated record and a No. 2 ranking, Stanford couldn’t have asked for a better start.

More importantly, a win on Sunday would give the Cardinal their fourth ranked victory and second against a top-10 opponent — two more than current No. 1 Pittsburgh. While both teams have a long way to go before December, Stanford’s early-season performance undoubtedly makes it a title contender.

Texas: A much-needed stimulus

After winning back-to-back national championships, the Longhorns were preseason favorites to get back to the top, and as No. 1 in the preseason AVCA Top 25 poll, a third title looked even more promising.

However, the Longhorns lost to Minnesota (ranked 18th at the time) and Miami (not ranked at the time). Texas fell to 6th in the most recent poll.

A road win against the Cardinal could turn the tide, be a sign that the Longhorns are back on track, and lead to an unforgettable run similar to that of 2023.