A year ago at this time, Stanford was tasked with replacing nine starters on the defensive side of the ball. There were serious questions about the unit's ability to maintain the unprecedented level of stoutness it had attained in 2012-14.
"Our youth is significant -- it's there," coach David Shaw said at the time. "But so is the talent."
Another Rose Bowl win later, it's apparent Shaw's observation was accurate. The new-look Stanford defense did suffer growing pains because of its inexperience, but it ultimately blossomed behind enough athleticism and play-making ability to complete the team by the end of the season.