3 Reasons to Tune in to Stanford vs. Cal in the Big Game

The Big Game has always been a tradition. Two academically-thriving colleges achieving success in football, with a nationally televised game to prove the better team.

This game has always been special. From The Play in 1982 to Shane Vereen's big game in 2009 to Andrew Luck's big run in 2010, there have been all kinds of crazy moments in this game.

Now, Andrew Luck officially has the spotlight in Palo Alto. Following two Cal-Stanford battles with lots of headlines, this one is likely to churn out even more. The communities in the Bay Area can get excited for some big time college football.

So if you haven't seen Andrew Luck, Keenan Allen, Marvin Jones, David DeCastro, or some of the other NFL prospects in this clash, you should definitely tune in.

Here are three reasons to either watch or attend the 2011 Big Game:

Reason 1: NFL Prospects

This game obviously has Andrew Luck—the perfect quarterback. But there is a lot more to this contest than Luck and his troops.

California is only 6-4, and they haven't gotten much attention this year (other than losses to USC and Oregon), but this is their chance to prove what they can do. California is a great home team, and with a good number of Cal fans, they can do just that.

Keenan Allen and Marvin Jones, two underrated Golden Bear wideouts, have a big chance. Allen is among the nation's leaders in receiving yards and receptions, and Marvin Jones has shown big play ability.

David DeCastro headlines a strong Cardinal offensive line, which has been getting a lot of attention for protecting Luck.

Even without Andrew Luck, this is a strong game in terms of NFL prospects.

Allen and Jones can flash their hands and legs, Luck can show his arm. DeCastro and the O-line can reveal their blocking.

And the audience can watch.

Reason 2: Rivalry Stakes

Everyone knows about The Play.

In 1982, California received a squib kick with four seconds left, trailing 20-19. After five laterals, Cal found their way to the end zone, 57 yards from the original spot. The Play took all headlines that day, and ended John Elway's college career.

This rivalry has had its ups and downs, from the birth of The Axe to The Play to Andrew Luck. Everyone loves this annual, traditional game that has brought so much to us.

Now, the stakes are higher. Everyone wants to see Andrew Luck at his best, the offensive lines overpowering, Zach Maynard performing as a sleeper, Keenan Allen and Marvin Jones showing off their hands and a great battle of two great teams.

The two teams have combined for a 15-5 record, and with Stanford trying to take a firm grasp on a BCS bowl, and Cal trying to improve their bowl position, the stakes are set.

Reason 3: Great Pac-12 Football

Last year's game wasn't even a game. Cal fans wanted a rematch. 364 days later, that wish has been granted.

With memories of Andrew Luck's hit lingering in his head, Cal safety Sean Cattouse and other Bears players prepare with those memories, ready for the Big Game.

Pac-12 competition is tighter than ever. Teams are fighting for their schools, looking to represent their teams with high-quality bowl battles. Stanford wants a BCS game for the second straight year.

If Cal finds a way to upset Arizona State and Stanford, the Holiday Bowl is still in sight for Cal. Stakes are set high for the team that wins this game, and while there are still obstacles left for both teams, they get significantly easier.

Now, everything is set for the ultimate test. Cal and Stanford. One game. One rivalry. One Axe.

Let the Big Game begin.