The optimism with which Stanford began the battle with San Diego State was shattered when in an early play, cornerback Toi Cook was injured in a pileup. It was clear from the medics involved in his exit that the injury might keep Cook, who was the national leader in interceptions, out of play for much of the season.

If during the course of the game the Stanford defense was prominent -- holding SDSU to 10 points -- the offense, with which Jack Elway had been working all week, was distinguished by Quarterback John Paye's control of the line of scrimmage; running back Brad Muster's numerous carries; and how effectively Muster was protected by offensive linesmen Kurt Josephson and Tom Nye. Despite the absence of injured wide receiver Jeff James, Thomas Henley, the other wide receiver, made three notable catches, one for a touchdown. The final score was 17-10. And Stanford was 4-0.