Capital University found the bottom of the Ohio Athletic Conference rankings in 2017. But that is not keeping Zanesville native Dartavious Stanford from aiming to repeat his stellar junior season.

Stanford ripped apart opposing defenses en route to a First Team All-OAC selection, the first Crusader to do so since 2011. His 1,119 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns led his team, while his yards per game mark was tops in the conference.

But even with his own personal success, not much went in the right direction for Capital as a team. The fifth-year senior is taking it upon himself with the season kicking off in a few short weeks to try and end his college career on a high note, as well as help the team find a better result than last year’s 1-9 mark.

“Honestly, I just want to do whatever I can. I know it’s cliche to say that,” Stanford said. “After last year’s (result), that’s not something we’re okay with at all. This off-season, we’ve done a lot. We’ve been trying to change the culture.”

The connection of Stanford and quarterback Thomas Wibbeler, who were teammates at Zanesville High School and Ohio Dominican University, will be key in team growth. Coach Chad Rogosheske gave high praise to the receiving corps Capital will have this year, led by Stanford.

While it takes far more for a team to succeed than simply a top-tier wide receiver, the humble attitude and strong work ethic of Stanford paired with Wibbeler and the rest of the returning Crusaders might be just enough to point the ship in the right direction.

Capital’s season kicks off at Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnatti at 6 p.m. on September 1.