There has never been a better time for Stanford football.
Ranked fifth in the BCS standings, the Cardinal host No. 3 Oregon on Thursday night in what is arguably the biggest home game in school history. Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck is the toast of the NFL, leading an influx of elite young players.
But whispers and insinuations that Stanford's culture of high academic achievement somehow provoked the abuse Miami Dolphins offensive tackle Jonathan Martinreceived at the hands of guard Richie Incognito threatens to overshadow that success, and head coach David Shaw told the "College Football 24/7" Podcast that trying to make such a connection is "just stupid."
"We are a tough, physical team. We have kids who are smart, play physical. To say those guys can't transition to the NFL doesn't make sense. It's insane. You win games by not making mistakes. You need tough, smart players who can get the job done," Shaw said.
"This is an isolated incident. The issue is not with Jonathan Martin, the issue is with the other person. I heard that and I chuckle, and scouts do, too."
Shaw went one step further on the Pac-12 teleconference Tuesday. "Linking what happened in Miami with Stanford is moronic," he said.
Whether Martin felt the same way as his college coach is still unclear. NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah, who was a scout with the Philadelphia Eagles when Martin was selected in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, reviewed his notes and they reflect a tough, sound football player.
However, Jeremiah was told by colleagues at the combine that Martin was "trying a little too hard to come off as a tough guy and it didn't come natural for him."
Still, nothing in Martin's background or conduct could have invited Incognito's deplorable actions. And if anyone tries to do the same with this next crop of rookies from Stanford, well, they would only be inviting trouble.
Such is the state of Stanford football in 2013, delivering success with physicality and confidence.
Follow Dan Greenspan on Twitter @DanGreenspan.
