Colin Wright, Cardinals’ ‘best player’, GTD vs. Florida State

Stanford faces a critical test Saturday night against Florida State with his defense already on edge. The Cardinal secondary is under pressure after losing cornerback Aaron Morris to a neck injury against SMU in Week 1. Now they may have to play without their best defender.

According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, star cornerback Colin Wright is expected to be “true” decision on match time against the Seminoles. Wright will warm up before kickoff at 10:30 p.m. ET at Stanford Stadium to gauge how he feels, and his status is significant since Morris has already been ruled out.

Colin Wright’s impact on Stanford’s defense

Wright was key to Stanford’s defense through the first five games of the 2025 season. The senior from Missouri City, Texas recorded 22 total tackles with 15 solo stops.

“We want to be extremely physical, and that starts up front. That starts with us on the back end,” Wright said at the ACC Kickoff earlier this year. “I think the physicality and the timing … helps guys like Teva be able to make plays on the ball, get sacks, get takedowns.” Wright emphasized the team’s focus on the game physical football and how defensive backs can help create opportunities for the pass rush.​​

The Cardinal desperately need Wright on the field. Stanford’s the pass defense is among the worst in college football, allowing 303.7 passing yards per game through six games. Opponents completed 67.5 percent of their passes and threw 13 touchdown passes with just one interception.​​

Without Wright, those numbers could get worse. Florida State arrives with an offense that can exploit defensive weaknesses. The Seminoles have received positive news about injuries, and Duce Robinson and guard Roydell Williams are expected to play.​​

Morris suffered his share scary injury during Stanford’s loss to SMU On October 11, he was immobilized and taken off the field in an ambulance after an unfortunate collision. The junior cornerback was listed as alert and responsive but will not be available Saturday.

Stanford (2-4, 1-2 ACC) needs a spark against Florida State (3-3, 0-3 ACC) to keep its season on track. Wright’s presence would give the Cardinals their best chance. The Cardinal will make the final decision after watching him warm up.