What Should Stanford Expect Ben Gulbranson?

Finally, in his redshirt junior year, Gulbranson lost time to Gevani McCoy, but started the final four games of the year. In those four, he recorded an impressive 943 yards, four touchdowns, and four interceptions. He even threw for 226 yards and a touchdown against Boise State, a team who made the College Football Playoff.

Gulbranson had been through a lot before transferring to Stanford, but now it looks like it's his time to shine. He has an improved offensive line with lots of returning production, but also some great transfers to add star power as well as depth.

The receiving core is full of transfers and recruits, most notably C.J. Williams and JonAnthony Hall, who likely will be the Cardinal’s top receivers in 2025. However, Gulbranson’s best weapon may be Sam Roush, the star tight end on the Cardinal offense.

In terms of yardage, Gulbranson should have no problem reaching some solid marks. In his only season getting solid minutes, he put up 1,455 yards, taking around half the snaps. However this year, assuming he takes the majority of snaps, should have around 2,500 yards. That’s about 208 yards per game, a very achievable mark.

Throughout his time playing, he has thrown 15 touchdowns, with his most being nine in a season. But again, he has not gotten consistent playing time just yet. In a full season, the expectation is for Gulbranson to throw for around 17 touchdowns, given his previous output, a bit less than two per game.

Gulbranson has struggled to keep the ball in Oregon State’s hands, and that is a bit of a concern as he continues at Stanford, just not to the same extent. If he can keep his picks to around nine, then that would be a step in the right direction for not only Gulbranson, but Stanford.

Overall, Gulbranson is ready for a solid if not great year. His starting experience can truly help Stanford conquer their goals, and push themselves to their limits next season.