Last week I wondered if California could beat up on a BCS conference team. This week I got my question answered in the form of a 52-7 victory Saturday afternoon.
Cal dominated the game in all phases. There were times towards the end of the first half where I felt they got complacent. But the defense put me in my place by creating a turnover and taking it the distance.
This was a good game for the Golden Bears, however, no one in their right mind had the future PAC-10 member Colorado Buffaloes to walk in and walk out with a victory.
Offensive surprise
The offense looked okay but not smooth. Kevin Riley’s first touchdown pass to Shane Vereen was a thing of beauty. I was amazed by the back shoulder throw Riley made to Vereen. It was clear Riley and Vereen have worked on that during the off-season.
The next touchdown pass Riley rolled out to hit Marvin Jones in the end-zone. Then later on the running game got into the action after the defense gave the offense a short field to work with.
However, California was only 4-11 on 3rd down conversion and Kevin Riley was 15-24 passing the ball. This is not good and must improve with better teams.
Defensive juggernaut
The Golden Bears defense attacked the Buffaloes and forced 5 turnovers. So far in the season the defense is ranked 4th in points against giving up 5.0 points per game. I’m not dumb I know the level of competition that California has faced is not top 10 but that defense is attacking.
I thought the team was just going to play through the motions but low and behold Micheal Mohamed took a pick 41 yards for a touchdown right before the half. That is what big-time programs do when they have leads—they take the life out of their opponent.
Top 25
I don’t know where California will be ranked but they are a top 25 team. As of now they are flying under the radar but if they keep winning then Cali becomes a target. I’m sure they can handle it.
Then again, can they win on the road? This is my next question and they will be tested.
Because Nevada is next up…
Oh boy, I can’t wait!
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Written by Vincent Douglas Gregory
Is a fan that loves sports like every other fan.Currently writes for Prosportsblogging.com on California Golden Bears and Vdgsports.com.
