Stanford Dominates Cal in 2025 ACC All-Academic Team

Cardinal football players outshine Golden Bears in the classroom

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In addition to reclaiming the Axe rivalry trophy in 2025, the Stanford football team also outperformed their counterparts at the University of California, Berkeley in the classroom. A total of 25 Stanford players were named to the 2025 ACC All-Academic Team, compared to just 9 selections from Cal.

Why it matters

The academic rivalry between Stanford and Cal is just as fierce as their athletic competition. This strong academic performance by Stanford's football team reinforces the school's reputation for excellence in both the classroom and on the field of play.

The details

The 25 Stanford players named to the 2025 ACC All-Academic Team span a variety of academic disciplines, including Symbolic Systems, Political Science, Mechanical Engineering, and more. Notable selections include offensive lineman Niki Prongos, who announced he will return for his final year of eligibility, and veteran offensive lineman Fisher Anderson.

  • The 2025 ACC All-Academic Team was announced on February 10, 2026.

The players

Niki Prongos

A Stanford offensive lineman who announced he will return for his final year of NCAA eligibility after making the 2025 ACC All-Academic Team.

Fisher Anderson

A veteran offensive lineman for Stanford who also made the 2025 ACC All-Academic Team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'd like to share a brief recap of 2025: Starting off I'm very thankful for all of the memories I shared with the 2025 Stanford football team! Some highlights include getting the axe back, going 4-2 at Home, setting the All-time Stanford student attendance record vs Cal, playing every snap of the season at LT, and even getting an opportunity to shoot an Ariat commercial with 49ers Quarterback Brock Purdy.”

— Niki Prongos, Stanford Offensive Lineman (LinkedIn)

What’s next

Stanford will look to build on its strong academic performance in 2026 as the team aims to repeat its success on the field and in the classroom.

The takeaway

Stanford's dominance of Cal in the 2025 ACC All-Academic Team highlights the Cardinal's commitment to excellence in both athletics and academics, reinforcing the school's reputation as a premier destination for student-athletes seeking to excel in all aspects of their collegiate experience.