Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors vs Stanford Cardinal Picks and Predictions August 23rd 2025

Angling for Offense, Hawaii Welcomes Stanford in Season Opener

The Stanford Cardinal are looking to kick off the 2025 season with a fresh start — literally. With veteran NFL coach Frank Reich taking the helm, Stanford heads to Honolulu for a Saturday opener against the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, a team that’s also hoping to make waves this season.

The matchup will be the 12th college football game played in Ireland since 1988, but for Stanford, the location matters less than the momentum they hope to build.

Reich took over the Cardinal after the departure of Troy Taylor, who went 5-18 during his rocky tenure. Allegations of misconduct hastened Taylor’s exit, but Reich’s focus remains on building trust and competitiveness.

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Ben Gulbranson Leads Stanford’s New Look Offense

Oregon State transfer Ben Gulbranson has been named starting quarterback for the Cardinal. Known for leading the Beavers to a 10-win season in 2022, Gulbranson brings veteran poise to a team that struggled offensively last year, ranking 106th nationally in scoring.

“I’m just trying to be a sponge and learn as much as I can every day,” Gulbranson said.

This new Stanford offense hopes to boost production behind a retooled coaching staff and experienced signal-caller.

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Hawaii’s Revival Starts with Alejado and Familiar Faces

On the other side, Hawaii aims to shake off recent scoring woes. The Rainbow Warriors averaged just 22.3 points per game last season but showed sparks late behind freshman quarterback Micah Alejado. He threw for 469 yards and five touchdowns in a thrilling finale versus New Mexico.

Former Stanford wideout Jackson Harris is now suiting up for Hawaii and joins a talented receiving group that includes Kentucky transfer Brandon White and slot standouts Pofele Ashlock and Nick Cenacle.

“I can’t wait for everyone to see what Harris can do,” coach Timmy Chang said.

Position Battles, New Schemes, and What to Expect

Both teams enter the matchup with offensive schemes under construction. Stanford’s challenge will be syncing new leadership with Gulbranson’s skill set, while Hawaii aims to recapture its air-raid roots under Chang.

See how this matchup compares to others and get real-time odds on our College Football Odds and Scores page.

Final Thought: Why This Game Matters

Though it’s just Week 0, the Hawaii-Stanford opener carries weight. Both programs are trying to rewrite their narratives with new leaders, new systems, and in Hawaii’s case — a dynamic new quarterback.

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