Austin Hooper Ready to Restore Tight End Tradition at Stanford

When the Stanford Cardinal have been at their best, they have used a clear-cut identity on the offensive side of the ball; a physical running game complemented by a play-action passing game that utilizes the tight end. Since Zach Ertz left the program after the 2012 season, however, Stanford has not had an elite pass catching tight end to help the efficiency of the passing game. Following a strong spring game, could Austin Hooper be ready to restore the tight end tradition of the Cardinal?

As a sophomore in 2014, Hopper flashed the ability to be a reliable piece of the Stanford passing attack. He finished second on the team with 40 receptions, accumulating 499 yards and a pair of touchdowns. But the focal point of the passing attack remained on the outside with receivers Ty Montgomery and Devon Cajuste and the Cardinal finished as the No. 6 rated passing offense in the Pac-12.

During the spring game, with receivers Cajuste and Francis Owusu sidelined, Hooper stepped up to show what he is capable of. He accounted for 103 of Kevin Hogan‘s 187 yards in the scrimmage and helped the quarterback to an efficient 13-of-19 showing on the day. He consistently found openings down the seams that allowed Hogan to make quick throws for big gains.

If they can get a big, reliable target over the middle to drive their passing offense, like the 6-foot-4, 250-pound Hooper, it would open up all kinds of options for the Stanford offense. It would allow a quick release option for Kevin Hogan and create some hesitation for defenses before they crashed down in run support. That will open up running lanes for the Stanford rushing attack and help Hogan enjoy a more efficient 2015 season.

For the Cardinal to return to the top of the Pac-12, they need to find some balance in their offense. Utilizing a pass-catching tight end could help bring that balance by improving the efficiency of the passing attack. Austin Hooper has the skills to be that missing piece for Stanford in 2015 and could be the difference maker in the Cardinal’s Pac-12 title hopes next fall.

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