Despite a late scare, the No. 18 ranked Stanford Cardinal were able to avoid being upset at Stanford Stadium by the Arizona Wildcats, beating their conference opponent by the score of 54-48 in overtime.
Arizona vs. Stanford 2012 final score: Cardinal hold off Wildcats, win 54-48 in overtime
The No. 18 ranked Stanford Cardinal avoided an upset at Stanford Stadium on Saturday afternoon, instead prevailing over the Arizona Wildcats in overtime
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Behind quarterback Josh Nunes, the Cardinal were able to comeback down 14 points with 9:13 remaining in the fourth quarter to tie the game at 48-48. Nunes was responsible for both touchdowns and had a total of five on the day (three rushing), capping off a career day for the quarterback.
However, it was a turnover in overtime that allowed the Cardinal to avoid being upset at home. After shredding the Cardinal defense all day through the air, Wildcats quarterback Matt Scott was intercepted by Chase Thomas. It was Scott's first interception on the day and ended what was otherwise a fantastic day for the quarterback, who completed 45 of 69 passes for nearly 500 yards and three touchdowns.
Two plays later, senior running back Stepfan Taylor took one to the house for a 21-yard rushing touchdown that gave Stanford the lead as well as the win. It was Taylor's 31st carry of the game and second touchdown while the 2- yard gain gave him 142 yards on the day.
Box Score Hero: Arizona wide receiver Austin Hill was the biggest beneficiary of the Wildcats’ pass-dominated offense, catching 11 passes for 165 yards and found the end zone twice.
Rankings Ramifications: Despite nearly being upset, the Cardinal did win and could see their ranking improve with the victory.
But Did They Cover? The Cardinal were unable to cover the opening spread of 12 points or the final line as 10-point favorites. The Wildcats, however, did cover the spread as double-digit underdogs.
Next Week's Schedule: The Wildcats will head back to Arizona and prepare to host the Washington Huskies, but will have a week off to prepare until their game Oct. 20 at Arizona Stadium. The Cardinal will go on the road to play the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Notre Dame Stadium Oct. 13.
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