Stanford, coming off a 9–5 season and an appearance in the Pac-12 Championship Game in 2017, began the year ranked 13th in the preseason AP Poll.

On defense, cornerback Paulson Adebo led the team with four interceptions and 17 passes defended, and was also named first-team all-conference.

Sources: Listed in the order that they were released The 2018 Pac-12 media days are set for July 25, 2018 in Hollywood, California.

David Shaw (HC), J. J. Arcega-Whiteside (WR) & Alijah Holder (CB) at Pac-12 media days.

An ensuing fumble returned for a touchdown by the Stanford defense sparked an epic comeback where the Cardinal were able to win in overtime.

Starting running back Bryce Love sat the game out due to an ankle injury.

The 121st installment of the Big Game was delayed due to unhealthy air quality caused by the Camp Fire.

From there, the game was mostly a defensive struggle as cornerback Paulson Adebo intercepted two passes from Cal's Chase Garbers.