TCU will face off against Stanford on Friday at 10:30 p.m. ET, with TCU favored to win by 9 1/2 points according to BetMGM. TCU currently leads the series 3-0. Both teams are aiming to bounce back from disappointing 2023 seasons in the upcoming season opener. TCU is looking to recover from a shaky season last year, where they ended with a 5-7 record and no bowl game after making the national championship game in 2022. Stanford, led by coach Troy Taylor, hopes for a strong start in their second season as they aim to improve from three consecutive nine-loss seasons.

A crucial matchup to watch in the game is TCU’s wide receivers against Stanford’s struggling secondary. Stanford had defensive difficulties last season, ranking poorly in points per game allowed and yards per play allowed. They will face a challenge defending against TCU’s talented wide receiver group that includes JP Richardson, Savion Williams, and former LSU transfer Jack Bech.

Players to keep an eye on in the game include TCU’s QB Josh Hoover, who showed promise as a redshirt freshman last season. Hoover averaged 339 passing yards per game and threw 13 touchdown passes in his last six starts. For Stanford, WR Elic Ayomanor emerged as a star last season and is expected to deliver strong performances regardless of who plays QB. Ayomanor had notable games, including a standout performance against Colorado.

TCU holds an unbeaten record against Stanford, winning in previous matchups in 2007-08 and in the 2017 Alamo Bowl. The Horned Frogs will kick off the season on the road for just the second time in nine seasons. Coach Sonny Dykes, previously at rival California, faced a winless record against Stanford during his time at California. Stanford has a solid track record in season openers played at home, winning their last 10 games, with their last home opener loss dating back to 2007 against UCLA.