WEST POINT, N.Y. – Army played fifth-ranked Stanford to a standstill until the midpoint of the third quarter Saturday before losing 34-20.
For a team that finished 2-10 last season and was a 30-point underdog, that's a step in the right direction.
The triple option gives Army an offensive edge because so few teams use it anymore on a regular basis and it's difficult to defend. The Black Knights have led the nation in rushing the past two seasons and are holding their own this year despite the departure of quarterback Trent Steelman. Army is averaging 314 yards rushing per game.
Army won the turnover battle against Stanford. Josh Jenkins intercepted a Kevin Hogan pass, and Mike Ugenyi forced a fumble that was recovered by Richard Glover.
Army (1-2) hosts Wake Forest (1-2) Saturday at Michie Stadium in a matchup between two teams anxious to get things right.
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