California 35 Minnesota 21: Postgame Thread + Grade the Bears
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 9:17 PM PDT
in Football
410 comments
via img.wonkette.com
In the words of Jean Paul Sarte, 'au revoir gopher'.
This is solely for postgame discussion of the Cal game. If you want to discuss the rest of the Saturday games, go to this thread by clicking here! We'll have more formal writeups from our Marshawnthusiasts about the game later this weekend.
Quick thoughts on the game, I'd suggest you do the report card before reading this.
- Kevin Riley had an up-and-down game. Yes his completion percentage was high, but some of his throws were elevated, others weren't on target. I recall Tucker having to come back and catch a pass instead of catching it in stride, Miller had to make a spectacular grab on an elevated throw. Good job by the receivers adjusting to make those throws.
- But he delivered when it mattered, making the big throws of the game to Ross and Miller down the stretch. He also made the correct read and quick-snapped/rushed it straight up on that 4th and 1. Nice job there.
- I was surprised with how much Cal ran the ball up the middle. Jahvid Best is not a down and distance guy and they kept on putting him into the hole. And Minnesota was stacking the box; the O-line didn't have the ability to seal them off late like they did in the second half. I see the Bears having lots of trouble with Pac-10 defenses who can seal the edge and the middle (Oregon State, UCLA, and of course USC come to mind).
- I thought Ludwig had a great first two or three drives, then kind of got lost with his playcalling near the end. You could see the sort of things that Ducks and Utes fan got frustrated with, lots of running up the middle and not utilizing his talent in the way you would've liked him to use it.
- Darian Hagan had his worst game as a Golden Bear. He was directly responsible for ALL of Minnesota's touchdowns. And I'm not even sure if it was his injury; he was faked out playing the run, played an intermediate receiver when he should've been on Decker and got beaten by Decker on another.
- On the flip side, Cal's zone coverage wasn't very impressive either. Weber was smart enough to find the receivers on 1st and 2nd down, and he was precise enough to break the zone, using the elevated throws and relying on Decker and other receivers to bring them down in the middle of the field. It nearly paid off with an upset.
- Okanes reports that Boateng has a fractured foot, which is why he didn't play much in the second half. Jeremy Ross stepped up big in his absence though.
- If they keep on playing the way they've been playing, the special teams is going to lose us a game this year. We need to prepare ourselves for that.
Since the game ended earlier then the last two weeks, we're going to move up the report card deadline just a little. Get your grades in by Sunday night at midnight for them to count in the final stats. That way we can get your thoughts about the game summed up a little earlier than Wednesday, when most of you have probably already moved on. You can click the link here or go through the jump and fill out the form right out on the site!
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Seriously, how healthy is Best?
1. He looked winded/tired/worn out towards the end of the game.
2. Knee brace? what the hell?
3. Lost half a step?
4. Ankle issues?
5. Shane Vereen getting a lot of the carries, especially in the first 2 games.
6. Limping after TDs and on the sidelines.
by elbarto83 on Sep 19, 2009 12:32 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Best carried the rock 26 times.. . when was the last time that happened? I’m not worried about him being tired. As for the limp…. or perceived limp… I’m worried.
by danzig on Sep 19, 2009 12:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unless he hurt himself after the last TD I’m not worried. He blew the Minn defender away like he always does on that play.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What did we do wrong?
From 2nd Quarter with 3:47 left till 4th Quarter with 10:59 left, we didn’t do much.
DRIVE TOTALS: Cal drive: 3 plays 5 yards, 01:13 Cal PUNT
DRIVE TOTALS: Cal drive: 3 plays 9 yards, 02:09 Cal PUNT
DRIVE TOTALS: Cal drive: 3 plays 8 yards, 01:38 Cal PUNT
DRIVE TOTALS: Cal drive: 4 plays -5 yards, 00:49 Cal PUNT
Total: Cal drive: 13 plays 17 yards, 5:49, 4 Punts
by elbarto83 on Sep 19, 2009 12:33 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Stopped being able to run the football. The coaches will have to look at the film to see why things stalled. The way Riley responded in the 4th quarter, though, suggests to me we’ll see him throw the ball more and more as the season goes on.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 3:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also there were some dropped passes by open receivers and missed passes by Riley.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 19, 2009 11:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ABC announcer just said he thinks Locker is the best qb in the Pac-10. Really? Really?!
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 19, 2009 12:34 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
At this point, I think Luck is…. but I saw Locker vs vandals… and he look real good.
by danzig on Sep 19, 2009 12:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
if you take out barkley from the equation, that’s not that farfetched.
i'm here to clean your pool but i don't have a pool *bowchica bowow*
by ch0ster on Sep 19, 2009 12:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Locker might be the QB you would most want to be your QB. But I don’t think that functionally he is the ‘best’ – he pretty much had no coaching up until this season from what I can tell
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 19, 2009 12:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where are our areas of weakness?
1. Kickoffs?
2. Offensive Line (no inside runs after 1Q)?
3. Darian Hagan?
by elbarto83 on Sep 19, 2009 12:35 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m not worried about #2 or #3 at all. Number one, though, is another question.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 3:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
- is a huge issue. We can’t give up field position like that. Our defense is good, but we can’t continually put them in a position where the opposing offense has a short field to work with.
Praise be to Tedford!
by Ohio Bear on Sep 20, 2009 2:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
DAMN THOSE UNIS ARE UGLY
Check out Oregon/Utah.
by danzig on Sep 19, 2009 12:37 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
omg you're right.
i'm here to clean your pool but i don't have a pool *bowchica bowow*
by ch0ster on Sep 19, 2009 12:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
hmmm
i guess i’m gonna go against the grain here and say that i like them. i mean, they’re not beautiful or anything, but considering how hideous and over the top oregon’s uniforms usually are, these are relatively understated and elegant-looking.
by atomsareenough on Sep 19, 2009 12:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought I had seen the new Oregon uniforms at their ugliest…but this is even worse than I imagined.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 19, 2009 12:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The gray pants and the white helmets combine for whole new levels of pain
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
All this talk about how Autzen has the best facilities in the Pac-10
But I’m pretty sure they forgot to install mirrors in there.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 19, 2009 12:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fugly unis
What pushes over the top are the wings on the collarbone. It looks a lame tattoo an MMA might get.
"it's like an alarm clock, WOOT WOOT!" -Bubb Rubb
by secret ASian man on Sep 19, 2009 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Talk of Washington’s resurgence may have been premature
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:41 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
What a horseshit effort by the Bears. We played down to them. We deserved to lose. When does basketball season start?
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 12:41 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Sarchasm?
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. I lost my voice by screaming at the TV. We played down to them. It was a terrible effort. I am angry and irrational.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Then you’re very wrong dude. When you lose 4 straight on the road no road wins are bad. We won by 14 against a pumped team and an amped crowd and frankly dominated both lines and most stats. If special teams didn’t suck it would have been a rout.
Perspective!
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions 4 recs
There were some very infuriating teams. Decker was open way too much. Usually, when they have one good skill player, you try to cover that skill player.
We are the far better team, yes, but we played down to them. That’s what is so infuriating. We should have won by 40.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 12:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you’re underestimating Minnesota, especially considering the road conditions.
As for Decker’s he’s legit. Almost certainly the best WR we’ll face. Did I wish we played him better? Yes. Am I freaking out about it? Nah.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really like Decker (considering that he almost died in the first half and came back), but he was by FAR their best player, and he was left uncovered a bit too much for my liking. This game was just supremely frustrating. It was like every single Cal Pac-10 basketball game last year.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, it was frustrating. But in a way that’s a big step. We would have lost this game last year.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess that is true. But look at how we played in the first quarter. I was planning on writing a glowing evaluation because of how awesome we looked in that first quarter. But then the team lost focus. Hopefully we don’t play like this at a home game, because you will have to sit through my tantrums.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 12:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
well, I’ll be right there to keep you calm or something?
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just punch me in the face. I will understand.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:02 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
We would have lost this game last year.
Thinking back through my entire history of Cal fandom, I can say that we would have lost this game in 1988, 1989, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008.
Praise be to Tedford!
by Ohio Bear on Sep 20, 2009 3:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which 2007 team? First half or second half?
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 20, 2009 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Both, except maybe for the team that showed up to play Oregon.
Praise be to Tedford!
by Ohio Bear on Sep 20, 2009 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah I’ll be rooting for Locker in every one of their games going forward – did you see all that blood on his jersey? NICE! I’m definitely glad we were able to overcome his plays in today’s game.
How can you not love a team that does this?
by LovinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You mean Decker
In other words, Go Bears!
by royrules22 on Sep 20, 2009 5:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Hagan was horrible today. They should not have scored before the half. He got burned badly twice. The third TD he was juust doing his job on the trick play. Mohamed was alone out there so he came up to support. I don’t blame him for that.
by danzig on Sep 19, 2009 12:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
An excerpt from my evaluation:
Hagan was a dead horse today. He kept getting beat.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Decker was open a lot because he is a GOOD player. And he made catches when coverage was good, too. On the TD where Cattouse clobbered him, the coverage was pretty good; Weber and Decker made a play, that simple. Sometimes the other team makes plays. Minnesota isn’t a Rose Bowl contender, sure, but they’re going to be a bowl team; they’re not bad.
Praise be to Tedford!
by Ohio Bear on Sep 20, 2009 2:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why are you like this?
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
When you turn 15 Twist, you’ll feel the same way.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 3:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was weened on Tedford. I have high standards.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 4:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
When are you ever rational?
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 19, 2009 11:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You’re talking to a 15 year old.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just think Rollon reaction is based on how much he cares about this team… and lets face it, we didn’t play well today… we weren’t bad, but getting burned twice by someone who WE KNEW would get the ball is bad.
by danzig on Sep 19, 2009 12:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
“Deserved to lose” is very strong. Most of these guys aren’t even 23, they’re allowed to let down.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed Avi
they’re allowed to let down.
It will be good for everyone’s sanity to realize that they will let down. Cal will not go undefeated. They will not dominate every game. They will make bad plays, get beaten, commit penalties. Looking at the bigger picture will help maintain sanity.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But we could dominate every game. Look at the first quarter. The team had swagger on offense. We were moving the ball. And there was nothing Minnesota could do to stop it. We did not need Best big plays, we were going to slowly bludgeon the ball downfield and get it in the endzone. Having that swagger on offense is awesome. When was the last time we had that? 2006? But then the team lost focus.
This team can go as far as it wants to go. The only thing that will hold them back is themselves. We have all the talent in the world. And when we put it together, it is awesome. But the question that will decide the season is whether or not we will keep that focus and that killer instinct, or whether the team will take their foot off the gas pedal a bit.
I guess it is just that the team has sooooooooo much talent that seeing them not playing up to their talent is maddening.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The only thing that will hold them back is themselves.
And, you know, the opponent.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 1:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am inferring that we have the talent to beat every single team on our schedule. Yes, including USC.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Talent Is Never Enough
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is exactly what I was saying.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You’re not inferring, you’re implying.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 19, 2009 11:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, so much hyperbole in this post.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have stated twice in this thread that I am completely irrational at this moment.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:06 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
But then the team lost focus.
I would say that Minnesota started playing better, Cal made some execution errors, a bad penalty killed one drive, Vereen slipped killed one, and Decker made some plays.
It’s tough to say they ‘lost focus.’ What does that mean, and how can you tell?
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some dumb plays (the punt mistake, Ezeff’s idiotic pass interference), some penalties. Minnesota started playing better and it seemed that Cal was taken off guard by it, as they haven’t really played anyone all year. Lost focus is kind of just a general term for not executing as well and making some dumb mistakes.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with this. A couple of dumb mistakes.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ezeff’s idiotic pass interference
But…that was a horrible call – Ezeff didn’t even touch him.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was a bad call, but it was still close. The later pass interference was absolutely infuriating. As was the announcer’s not understanding the rules of a catch with Miller (the ground knocked it out. He had control. It was pretty obvious).
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah that was a really iffy home-crowd call.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also, with Ezeff there was a blatant hold on that play. Do defensive backs communicate with each other on plays like that or no?
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Another thing, what is the definition of kick catch interference? Because it looked like the guy caught it before Sofele hit him.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
either way it was helmet on helmet, still got called for that.
by turkey on Sep 19, 2009 1:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I am guessing that was just inexperience at being a gunner.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was a close call
The facemasks bumped, but Sofele was trying to push the guy off before the helmets collided. He looked really upset after the play.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Punt or Kick recvr has an imaginary “Zone” around him,. and violating it while he is attempting to catch is a penalty. That call seemed to be about that, but, 1/billionth of a second later, prolly not. The ref did not call a personal foul, ( helmet to helmet) and, JT was hugging and reasurring Sofele on the side lines, job well done.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 19, 2009 11:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's actually defunct.
I looked it up earlier; I think they got rid of the halo rule some time around 2003. Something about giving PRs and KRs a false sense of security.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 20, 2009 9:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
he Did
BAd call, either way..
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 10:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
wtf was up w JT??
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 10:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oops
Sorry…this was supposed to be all on one Comment. We saw the replay, and Isi Clearly hits the recr AFTER the guy touches the ball. He hit him in the chest, not directly helmet-to-helmet. And, the ref called, “interfering with abiltiy for punt returner to catch.”
What we then saw was JT hugging and reasurring a somewhat confused Sofele.
But, I just read today that JT looked across the field at games end to find Gopher HC,and strongly apologize for Isi’s hit.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 10:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Guess he is hoping that the Gopher HC wasn’t watching the ESPN broadcast. Playing it both ways, I like that. Tedford the Politician!
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 10:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He is that.
Couldn’t believe the amount of time JT took per fan on FAn Day.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 21, 2009 2:27 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
That was a HORRIBLE call.
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 19, 2009 6:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can’t even wrap my mind around that idea that we “deserved to lose.” As untrue as untrue can be. We outplayed Minnesota, found ourselves in a tie game in the 4th quarter nonetheless, but stepped it up and made plays in the 4th quarter. We made plays when it mattered. We won. We earned it. We’re 3-0 and have nothing to apologize for.
Praise be to Tedford!
by Ohio Bear on Sep 20, 2009 3:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that was the frustration talking. On further review, I completely disagree with that statement. We didn’t deserve to lose.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 20, 2009 3:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know the frustration. I’ve been there, too.
Praise be to Tedford!
by Ohio Bear on Sep 20, 2009 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe in the future you should wait 24 hours before making any comment about a game. Give you a chance to just relax and calm down.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 4:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s what I was planning on doing from now on. But I will probably be a lot more lenient in the coming weeks, given the toughness of opponents. You won’t see me complaining about wins against Oregon or USC.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 20, 2009 4:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
getting burned twice by someone who WE KNEW would get the ball is bad.
I agree with this. How much of it was our good run defense pulling guys up? I’d rather have more of an expert explain how Decker caught so many passes after getting Decked.
Remember, the enemy's end zone is DOWN!
by GoldBlooded on Sep 19, 2009 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would like to know if we knew that was the QB’s ONLY recvr, why we played zone against him? Shouldn’t a DB been assigned to shadow Decker thoughout the game?
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 19, 2009 11:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not expert on this, but I imagine that if you devote a DB to “shadowing” a particular guy while otherwise playing zone, it compromises the rest of the zone coverage by creating a soft spot in the zone.
Praise be to Tedford!
by Ohio Bear on Sep 20, 2009 3:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was there
And Weber spread it around quit a bit, it wasn’t just to Decker, who by the way is a great receiver, you must respect your opponent.
by Cugel on Sep 20, 2009 10:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point, but....
I am less of a non-expert….but, doesn’t Gregoray have a zone/man, Def?..or, am I just imagining things? I thought there was a D where some of the DB’s are managing a certain area, and some are assigned to players or positions?
When we had a “Rover”….what was his zone? And, if your opponent is killing other teams with one particular player, like Best, aren’t the D’s going to key on that player, and assign someone to be on him at all times?
Or, is zone, Zone, and man to man, just that?
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 21, 2009 2:34 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ok, “they’re allowed” isn’t the right word, but it’s understandable if their effort isn’t consistent.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 12:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The 3rd Quarter effort was pathetic
Thankfully, the team pulled it together and executed when the needed to in the fourth. Just looking at the 3rd quarter, they Bears didn’t deserve the win at the time even when they still had the lead.
"it's like an alarm clock, WOOT WOOT!" -Bubb Rubb
by secret ASian man on Sep 19, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why?
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
…cause I didn’t like your post?….my bad…shoulda said, just breathe
by TKE Prytanis 79 on Sep 19, 2009 12:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you go back and look at basketball post game threads, you can tell that I am entirely irrational if the team plays unsatisfactory. Avinash should screen my posts in the hour after gametime.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
gotcha…i’ve been at this for about 35 years so I guess I’ve mellowed
by TKE Prytanis 79 on Sep 19, 2009 1:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
I don’t think us younger fans have gotten the hang of it yet.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
???
Wow. While far from perfect, I thought this was one of the most complete games the Bears have EVER played under Tedford. An early road game. Against a quality undefeated opponent. Took charge of the game early. Never trailed. Didn’t turn the ball over except for one very unlucky bounce on special teams. Dominated the 4th quarter after the game was tied.
This was a very satisfying victory, the sort of decisive road victory I long ago grew sick of watching USC earn time and time again. I can’t wait for the Ducks, Trojans, and the rest of the Pac-10 to come calling.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 3:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Man, the old posters showing optimism and the young posters showing negativity?? What’s going on here?
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 3:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Most old blues are pessimistic about the season as a whole but are satisfied by W’s. Young blues expect more and aren’t satisfied with just W’s.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just want Cal to play up to their potential every game. And we didn’t do that today. Hyperbolehyperbolehyperbole.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 4:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m a solidly Young Blue and I’m pretty OK with this. Really our problem was giving Minnesota the short field in the first half, and I don’t really know what the idea was with running Best 26 times. But seriously, Colt McCoy (the son of a motherless whore who sank my fantasy football team this week and who I am benching in favor of Jimmy Clausen) threw twice as many picks as he did touchdowns tonight. College football is a harsh mistress.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 19, 2009 11:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Old Blues?
I may be the oldest Blue here, and, I thought that game had a terrible Defensive scheme, particularly regarding zone coverage on their only weapon, Decker. Special teams sucked so bad, Gophers started most of their drives from the 40. Ludwig started off very well, then left the building with Elvis.
But, the damn refs…omg! The Isi hit was the wrong call, and, Ezeff’s PI call was imaginary. But the worst was the holding call on Tepper, where Best ran for about 35yds and the ball was on the 20 something. How can you hold a guy by knocking him flat on his ass?
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 19, 2009 11:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If I read that summary without knowing the result I would have to assume we had lost, somehow though we actually won by two touchdowns. Funny old world.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 19, 2009 11:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats what so insane.
We score 35 on the road against a good team and beat them by 2 TDs when we kept shooting ourselves in the foot and people are acting like we lost by 30.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 7:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK. My Bad
You didn’t see my son and I jumping up and down and Hi-Fiving and yelling so loud wife said we were scaring the dogs…..at each score or 1st Down. This is a great win, no doubt.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 21, 2009 2:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ruh roh
Sorry guys: THIS is the open thread for other games(I missed it at first). I hope I don’t get banished to the CBKWit Memorial Dungeon.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 19, 2009 12:44 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Sorry Berkelium, got called away for a few minutes, totally forgot I separated the threads.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 12:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
GUYS, really sorry I didn't mention this in advance
This thread is for discussion of the Cal game.
To discuss the other games, go here.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 12:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Question
Is there any advantage, when running the ball up the middle, to using Best rather than Vereen?
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 1:03 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
There isn’t really much difference between the two. Vereen shares similar characteristics to Best, and he depends a lot on the interior run blocking. If the run blocking is bad, neither Best nor Vereen will gain much traction.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not that I’ve seen, they’re both capable of getting 3-4 yards on those up-the-middle runs. The difference would be if the line gets a push into the second level, then Best has a little more acceleration and ability to be patient for that second block to break it.
The difference between the two is patience, Best waits for the block then hits the afterburner. Vereen doesn’t wait quite as often, he just hits the hole and hits it hard.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
We really don’t have a powerback this year. We might need to use Holley at the goal line.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Deboskie seems a little larger, but he too is more of a combined speed/power back than either one or the other.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Holley
Seems like we should be using Holley for “and short” situations. The dude is stout and has low center of gravity because of his height. I mean, the way he moved the Maryland defense? Why aren’t we using him?
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No particular reason. We didn’t we use Ta’ufo’ou?
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess I got my hopes up
After the Maryland and EW game and seeing him get a carry and catch.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He’s recovering from a concussion. That may have had an impact on how he was used. I’m just speculating though. Seems like if he’s too hurt to carry the ball he shouldn’t be playing at all.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Riiiiight
Totally forgot about that.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
My reaction
This game was closer than it should have been, but not for particularly important reasons:
(1) For some reason, we took Best out for long stretches and Vereen just plain had a bad game. But, I think this is because the coaches have realized that they aren’t exactly (1) and (1a) and are choosing to rest Best if they think we have a game in hand. Today, it turned out we didn’t, but when he got back in there, the offense was dynamic again. And Best ended up with 26 carries – which I think bodes well for the rest of our season. (I don’t think he is hurt – I think 26 carries on a reasonably hot, humid day is tough on anyone.)
(2) Two key penalties kept it close – the phantom hold on Tepper killed a drive, and the phantom PI kept a drive open for them. Yes, you always get some bad calls, but both of these were key to MN getting the game tied.
(3) We really should have been throwing more – guys were open. Riley wasn’t great, but was hitting enough guys down-field to keep the defense on their heels – that is all we need from the passing game. I know some people will get freaked out by a couple of his bad throws, but I feel good about the fact he just doesn’t seem to put his bad throws in places where defenders are going to catch then (except that pass that Tucker had to break up – seemed that was on Tucker though.)
(4) Defensive line still getting tons of pressure for a three-man rush – I feel really good about that, especially w/r/t USC if Barkley is playing.
(5) Hagan had a rough game, but I think Decker is just a tough guy to match-up with (SQT couldn’t do it at 5-foot-9, so it fell to Hagan). Otherwise Hagan was burnt on a trick play. I have always thought Hagan was solid, so I think this should be an anomaly.
(6) Lots of receivers involved.
(7) Very physical – from the Cattouse hit, to SQT against the run, to the linebackers really stuffing the run.
Conclusion – in the end, while I guess there is some reason to be concerned about letting our foot off the gas a bit in the 3rd quarter, it wasn’t a bad performance in the end. Other than Hagan and Vereen, there really isn’t anyone you could single out as not playing well. In some ways, I am more impressed winning by two touchdowns in this fashion (esp. with Riley), than if we had just kept the lead at 14 all game.
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 19, 2009 1:08 PM PDT reply actions 6 recs
Agreed on all counts. Rec’d
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
well said and
a nice balance to some of the hyperbole
by TKE Prytanis 79 on Sep 19, 2009 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, its negative hyperbole on my part for a change.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree – the fact that we were able to turn the gas back ON is something that has often been lacking in the past.
However, against some opponents, taking our foot off the pedal for 20 min is going to put us in a hole we can’t climb out of.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 1:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree overall, a couple criticisms that I have were about a few players in particular.
Jeremy Ross……c’mon dude catch the ball. He’s always had a case of the drop-sies and even more so today. Even that long route that took us down to the 3 yard line, he almost juggled it while running out of bounds. If he keeps this up, I want to see more of Lagemann!
Marvin Jones…..didn’t get open at all? Did Riley overlook him? Or was he just covered up?
Hagan….you’ve already commented on him.
The secondary in zone versus Decker. Ok, Hagan had a bad game, but there were several times when there was a wide-out and a slot on the same side, one running a fly route and the slot running a 10 yard out. Hagan seemed confused and/or didn’t get the help either underneath or over the top that he needed.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess I agree on that criticism of Jones. But Ross totally redeemed himself in the 4th!
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 19, 2009 1:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. Ross was a monster in the 4th.
Does Riley have an interception yet this year?
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
For such an avid and emotional fan, you should know the answer to this.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
There were a few dropped ones today. He has been a bit magic so far this year, but when is that going to run out?
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
A bit magic? Are you watching the same games?
Riley’s been good, sometimes very good. But magic? C’mon, not just yet. Magic would be passing for 3-4 TDs each game, threading the needle.
Magic might be the db’s dropping certain INT’s.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Magic might be the db’s dropping certain INT’s.
Exactly what I am referring too. He has had very good luck.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
rollon might be referring to how lucky Riley has been in not getting picked. He made some questionable throws that were nearly grabbed by the Gophers, today.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
There is one I remember that went right through the hands of the DB.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 1:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I specifically remember the one that went through Tucker’s hands and into a DB. If Tucker was a step slower, the DB would’ve caught that sucker.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
On that one, Tucker made two mistakes and then a great heads-up play….
First, he didn’t sell his fake and the CB wasn’t fooled at all and was able to jump the pass.
Second, Tucker should have cut harder into the lane to use his body to shield/put himself in between the ball and the DB.
Third, he did make a very strong heads up play to keep the DB from holding onto the ball.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I totally forgot that the DB actually had the ball. Good on Tuck.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Our only turnover on the year is the goofy punt return bounce fumble
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with Nick on this one. The Cal player wasn’t particularly close to the ball; it just took a wicked bounce. And he was very quick to respond and nearly recovered it. Sometimes, shit just happens.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 6:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Like the announcer said, shouldn’t Syd have said something or motioned players to clear the area?
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 19, 2009 7:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, but are we sure he didn’t? And again, it’s not like the ball landed on top of Cal player; it just took a wicked sideways hop.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 7:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
True, grrr, I liked our 0 TO stat.
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 20, 2009 10:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, but the only reason he did not have 3 today was because their secondary dropped some easy opportunities.
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 19, 2009 6:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ross nearly dropped that one in the 4th. He hasn’t redeemed himself just yet. He better put some pine tar on those gloves. I really missed seeing Jones’ hands out there today.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But nearly dropped means that he caught it.
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 19, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
How about “barely caught” instead of “nearly dropped”….
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Glass half full, glass half empty.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I apologize, but I find this criticism to be ridiculous. Ross had some HUGE catches today and, in my view, is one of the heroes of today’s game. He had 2 HUGE HUGE HUGE catches on the key TD drive (including on the 3rd and 15).
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah Ross played well when it counted.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That almost sounds like some sort of insult the way you phrase it.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Twist has a Ross mancrush!
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 4:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Without him, we might lose this game. There are many concerns I have. Jeremy Ross is not one of them.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ross was more than critical. Hopefully this boost his confidence and we see some more clutch catches.
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 19, 2009 6:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm pretty harsh on Ross, but I'm laying off him for a while. I do honestly think his clutch play was the difference of an W and an L. At least, that's what my sorry heart felt while watching the game this morning.
by nickle on Sep 20, 2009 2:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
And by sorry, I meant making my heart pump blood at a rate it hasn’t pumped in since that you know, that one Arizona game.
by nickle on Sep 20, 2009 2:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jones was NEVER open?…oh…I never saw his number…thought he was hurt. I called the TD’s with Best running wide, instead of up the middle, and have no clue why they run him off tackle in the red zone with the DL stacked. Both Tepper and Ezeff bad calls were rediculous, as was Isi’s. But, only Tepper’s was a game, or score changer. I gave 14 points, ( lost on the push) and sure thought this game was going to be won better than it did.
It looks like Cal has the most talent in the Pac-Ten, and should still beat the
Ducks easily. Same with USC. I am more concerned with Bruins, Beavers, Wildcats, and……maybe most of all…those Dogs up North, ruining a perfect season on our last game.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 19, 2009 11:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wildcats? You obviously didn’t catch any of Iowa/Zona.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 19, 2009 11:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Correct, I didn't.
Thanks for the up on ’Zona. One less to worry about.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 1:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ruining a perfect season on our last game.
rollonubears, did you kill Primo and start posting under his name!?!?!?!?!??? Turn yourself into the police immediately!
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 7:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Want me to just e-mail you my opinion? Because I am obviously not getting it across clearly enough here.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 20, 2009 9:32 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But, only Tepper’s was a game, or score changer
My bad….Isi’s was too. Gophers scored after that penalty.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 10:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
TiG, agree man.
(1) Was it really hot and humid? Weather seemed okay.
(2) I agree Minny was really opportunistic. But college football is a game of opportunities and we can expect to see several games like that this year
(3) It’s why I emphasized Cal’s offense should pass the ball to start the game, because I felt we could get bogged down if the run game slowed up. A solid passing game that opens up the run would make us a deadly team.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
83 with 40% humidity
Like a hot day in the Yay Area.
The run was doing fine our firs two drives, though. I noticed we lowered the frequency of presnap motions after those 2 scores, though. Any possible impact?
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I only have online weather to check, but it looks like it was around 80, and Minnesota can be pretty humid in my experience (which was wearing a tuxedo at an outdoor wedding in August, so my experience might not be the most representative)
Agree on points (2) and (3).
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 19, 2009 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hydro told me he wore pants and it was a mistake. So, it was hot. But there was also a breeze.
He also said that the Cal section was WAY LIKE FUCK up there and they were so bad they couldnt see the replay screen.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
So you’re saying you wanted to see Hydro in some short shorts?
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 19, 2009 6:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cal seats were at the top of the stands, but the stadium is built really well, so our seats were just fine, really. It’s pretty, but not huge – it only holds 50,000+ and the stands really aren’t built that high, so bad seats were hard to come by, in my opinion.
As for the jumbotron, the reason that we couldn’t see is just because we were next to it. It’s parallel to on end zone, and our seats were at the corner of that end zone. So it wasn’t a symptom of having bad seats per se, it was just our position relative to the jumbotron that was wonky.
CGB: Wasting Your Potential, Your Time, & Your Life Since 2006.
by BearStage on Sep 19, 2009 11:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wait what couldn't see the screen?
Was hydro at the section above the band? I was in the section near the Minn students and thus had a great view of the screen.
In other words, Go Bears!
by royrules22 on Sep 20, 2009 5:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
There was a breeze in the stands
But I doubt there was a breeze on the field; even the homer Big-10 officials were gassed and grabbing the gatorade whenever possible (maybe that’s why they called so many penalties on the Bears?)
Just Sayin"
by Cugel on Sep 20, 2009 10:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
it was fairly hot. Kinda humid, but nowhere near what people say Maryland was like. I did have my pants rolled up for most of the game. That said, I don’t think the weather was bad enough to be a factor – it was tolerable.
CGB: Wasting Your Potential, Your Time, & Your Life Since 2006.
by BearStage on Sep 19, 2009 11:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Cal split the difference in re: passing vs. running in the beginning of the game by working the perimeter, and then just… stopped. It was working, and then we weren’t doing it anymore. Mystifying.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 19, 2009 11:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It wasn't too hot
Just for a few minutes in the 3rd. Wasn’t that humid. It was just your average sunny fall day in the Bay Area type weather.
In other words, Go Bears!
by royrules22 on Sep 20, 2009 5:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes, those bad throws freaked me out.
alaska A residing in northern Idaho.
by ak_A on Sep 19, 2009 2:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Could not agree more. This is exactly how good football teams when on the road against quality opposition. Roll on you Bears!!
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
USC employing the bend-don't-break defense
Locker just exploited USC’s adoption of the bend-don’t-break….lol
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:08 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Hey dball, sorry, I forgot to explain this, this thread’s for Cal discussion. Click here to discuss the rest of the games!
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You may have made it clear, I just got on here and have "z"’d thru the posts.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Earlier, Holmoephobe was worrying the media line would be Cal struggling.
ESPN headlines:
Cal breaks road curse behind Best’s school record 5 TDs
and
No. 8 Cal gives its Best in win over Minnesota
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Maybe its the Cal fan in me
But those seem like incredibly positive spins on our win.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You were right. I’ll take it!
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 1:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Having the press in your corner always works.
Hey, look at USC and Oregon!
"Today's weather, excessively violent with a chance of dismemberment. Tune in later for our 5-day forecast!"
~ Three Dog - Fallout 3
by Swamphunter on Sep 19, 2009 1:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
BN will hate this.
I am a horrible bruin-bear crossbreed.
by GBB4188 on Sep 19, 2009 1:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What type of headline would they like?
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think they’re resigned to hating all media outlets.
I am a horrible bruin-bear crossbreed.
by GBB4188 on Sep 19, 2009 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
All I've heard announcers talking about so far
is 5 TDs from Best. We’ll see how they spin it at the USC halftime show.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 19, 2009 1:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well the commentators also in the 3rd quarter were saying stupid things like “we haven’t seen productivity from Best yet”……um, 3 TDs seems pretty productive. But maybe they were referring to his production after the 1st quarter and just didn’t say that explicitly.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
THe media wont be negative about this. Only us Cal fans who watched every moment will.
I mean look at it, we won by 2 touchdowns on the road and our BIG PLAYER OF NOTE scored 5 TDs. Step away from the ledge, Cal fans, the rest of America thinks this was a solid to great victory for Cal.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Again
The voice of wisdom, and the papers in Minnesota agreed
by Cugel on Sep 20, 2009 10:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
HISTORY IN THE MAKING!
First time ever I’ve been refereed to as the “voice of wisdom.”
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 10:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Full court press.....
In the media I think the 5 TDs will overshadow JB’s periods of unproductivityness…….age;
Seems what everyone on the LEast Coast will hear is Jahvid Best, Heisman Candidate, tied the school record with 5 TDs, not that his average was low (for him). Could play very well in Peoria.
I'd like to smell the Roses before I die.
by BTown85 on Sep 19, 2009 11:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sandy Barbour's Twitter
Jeff talking to the press – loving Jahvid’s 5 TD performance vs a game Golden Gopher squad.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:29 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
This is OT but HILARIOUS
http://seanbfitzgerald.com/2009/09/18/twitter-fight/
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 1:31 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Early thoughts
1) Cal outgained Minnesota 415 to 270 – almost 150 yards more. We also won the turnover battle. Why was this close? Special teams. If we make the FG, if we get good kickoff coverage, etc. I think the final score would have been more like 40 – 17.
2) The Defensive line had a HUGE day. The line was getting constant pressure which was the absolute key to controlling Minnesota’s offensive line, and their running game averaged 1.8 yards per rush
3) Having said that, the secondary had a rough day until the pressure started creating INTs at the end. But I’m willing to give most of the credit to that to Decker, because he’s very legit. Take away his yardage and Minn. has nothing going. At a certain point you have to give credit to the talent of the other team. I’m not going to be saying Minnesota sucks because they allowed Jahvid his yards.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:35 PM PDT reply actions 3 recs
I like these points – totally missed the total yardage disparity until you pointed it out.
We really do need to fix the kick-off situation – and strongly consider just kicking it out of bounds every time.
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 19, 2009 1:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
One thing about the yardage thing. Cal got a lot more yards because they had to go much further down the field on their scoring drives. I’d say Minnesota played about as well as Cal did.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
And we have to realize these special teams problems are not going away. We’re going to have to deal with it, and just shrug it off when it bites us.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
At every kickoff
I’m just going to do Russel Peters’ “do you want to eat/WTF!” Italian impression and think, “Que sera sera.”
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously, the special teams is sickening…….
why can’t Syd get enough protection to run back the punts?
why can’t we get decent kick-offs? 12 yard line, 15 yard line, 20 yard line, out of bounds…..wtf?! this is a top 10 team and one position (kicker) is fucking this up for us. we can’t let the other team start at their own 40 every time. against the better teams its going to really hurt us.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:47 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
I agree and what’s more frustrating is that you look at every single Top 25 team and they’re just getting it into/near the endzone.
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 19, 2009 6:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Totally agree. The kicking foot is infected with a carcinogen, that is spreading through the entire Special Teams, even receiving. WTF is with Syd calling Fair Catches, with no one around? And, sorry I can’t remember who was receiving on KO and decided to scoop a ball up as it was heading out of bounds near the 5. Instead of letting it roll out, where we would start in the same field position Gophers enjoyed all day, it was returned to the 15.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 19, 2009 11:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I watched some of FSU/BYU
And FSU’s kicker kicked it out of the end zone on one KO.
It’s just unconscionable that we can’t get it that far.
by Nashville on Sep 21, 2009 7:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Disagreed. Cal averaged significantly more per rush and per pass. The total yardage is legit
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cal averaged 10 yards per pass, Minnesota 7
Cal averaged 4 yards per run, Minnesota 2
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that our avg yards/run is skewed a little by Riley’s stat of 5 rushes for -1 yards?
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I suppose, although Minn’s is impacted by their QB’s stats too (-19 yards)
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s legit, true, but I don’t know if the disparity is that great.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Keep in mind Cal’s offense did nothing from the middle of the 2nd to around the middle of the 4th.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not trying to sugarcoat things, I just think Cal outplayed Minnesota on offense and defense as a whole.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’d say Minnesota played about as well as Cal did.
Agreed. I think both teams played close to their potential at this point in the season. Thus, Cal on the road is about two touchdowns better than Minnesota at home. Sounds about right to me.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Might as well discount Prophet's 2nd int
The game was already decided, then. We also couldn’t capitalize on one other int, if I remember correctly.
To be honest, I’m wondering if too much is made regarding turnover stats. Correlation != causation. It could be a team is making turnovers by resorting to desperate pass plays as they fall further behind rather than turnovers being deciding factors.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Defensive line was awesome. Weber is going to flinch whenever he sees the number 44 for the rest of his life.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Defensive line was awesome
And THEN some !!!!! What’d the announcer say…..“That pass rush is going to help Alualu feed his two kids some day?” Pretty funny………in an announcer-ish sort of way.
Okay, CLEARLY I’m remedial when it comes to block quotes and can’t do a proper one to save my freakin’ life……how’s it work again?
I'd like to smell the Roses before I die.
by BTown85 on Sep 19, 2009 11:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought it was a visual representation of the DLine.
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 20, 2009 10:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blows
Boateng’s been putting in a lot of effort to be a good WR. How long does a fracture take to heal?
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
depends what part of it is broken, but for a WR that’s a big deal….well for any position its a big deal.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’ll probably depend on the severity of the break. I’m guessing a month
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
(at least)
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: I just went to wiki to figure out if a fracture was the same as a break
There’s a nasty broken toe picture there.
by BleedinBlue on Sep 19, 2009 1:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, both words mean the same thing.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The injuries pile up…does not bode well.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What’s the tally…….who else?
Ladner
Boateng
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 1:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Curran was hurt, don’t if it’s bad though.
by turkey on Sep 19, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s pretty much Boateng and every tight end on the roster
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aren’t we relatively injury free other than this?
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 19, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Smith and Ladner too, maybe Curran.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sounds like more Ross and Lagermann for a few weeks.
by turkey on Sep 19, 2009 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ross played well today, looks like he can step in.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
4th q Ross yes, earlier in the game not so much.
by turkey on Sep 19, 2009 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Compared to last season, we look very healthy.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 19, 2009 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Health along both lines is huge
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, pretty amazing to have no major line issues after three games.
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 19, 2009 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
knock on wood
In other words, Go Bears!
by royrules22 on Sep 20, 2009 5:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eddie Young tweets
road warriors boi … headed back to cali with that victory … cali we in this thang
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 2:05 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
This was the pregame injury report (from Ted Miller)
California
FB Brian Holley, concussion, questionable
FB Will Kapp, ankle, questionable
TE Spencer Ladner, knee, out
TE Tad Smith, knee, out
Hopefully our FBs will be back to full strength and Nyan will be the only addition to the list from today.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 2:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Yeah no wonder we had trouble blocking today. We should’ve tried pitching out a little more.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 2:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didn’t Sparks (TE) get hurt too?
Don’t we have a DE or LB that also plays a little TE? I’m happy with Anthony Miller, just thinking about worst case scenario.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 2:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought that was Curran. Sparks too?
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 2:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Curran got dinged up today, but that looked either like a rib or just the wind knocked out of him.
I thought we had lost Sparks before the start of the year but maybe I’m getting confused with Ladner and Smith?
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 2:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah Tad Smith hurt his knee (ACL?) before the season even started. Ladner hurt his knee in the Maryland game. Curran got hurt today. Sparks is fine AFAIK.
by rjnarayen on Sep 19, 2009 2:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have praise and prejudice
I’m very very upset at Tedford for not going for it on 4th down and short, past the 50, the first time. I would have blamed the loss on him right there if we didn’t pull out of our nose dive with the pass to Ross on 3rd and very long.
You know should go for it past the 50 in the first place, and you are telling your team “I’m scared”. Then they go play scared. I got VERY VERY ANGRY at that call.
Demand your offense gets 1-2 yards when you need it. If they don’t, demand your defense get the next stop. Good morale for both. I’ll praise you for having guts, even if we lose the game.
Now, let me give praise for us getting up off the mat, for playing tough in the 4th quarter, on the road, even when the momentum was against us. That was huge, and I don’t believe last year’s team could do it – but this team did it!!!
They got the job done!!! And if a horrible holding call on Tepper, and horrible PI are called back, it goes better. (Though don’t forget they fumbled once as a total gift – the first 2 INTs were pressure from us and we earned them).
I’m very happy our team got the character building of playing down (even though it was never worse than a tie game).
I’m also concerned about injuries.
I was infuriated at too much running up the middle, with Best and what looks like a sore toe/ankle. But I’ll play devil’s advocate – if that’s what Oregon and $C game plan around – stopping the power-run up the middle, that opens up the outside, where we REALLY have an advantage.
So maybe, just MAYBE, it was a dangerous call by the coaches to practice our running between the Tackles to set up the rest of the season.
Stand the whole game, stay to the end, and start yelling while they're still in the huddle. GO BEARS
by JerrottWillard45 on Sep 19, 2009 2:14 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
About the 4th quarter.....
Want to know what I think the difference-maker was? We were moving towards the open side of the stadium, where there are no fans. Thus, much less fan noise. If we had to drive towards the inside of the horse-shoe shaped stadium, I think the 4th quarter would have been MUCH harder for us than it was.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 2:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rec’d for the very strong thoughts.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 2:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Punting inside the 50
Read a few years ago bout this non-football statistician, who figured odds based on history, Standard dev, etc. on going for it, on fourth. His conclusion was the loss/gain potential was exponential, based on per yard after the 50…meaning the results out scored the risk, starting at yard 49.. Moreover, between the 40 and 30, the odds were 2 to 1 in favor of going for it, anywhere from 10 yards or less to the First Down.
Punting from the 40, in other words, is dumb.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 12:05 AM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
Yes!
Post this Monday as a question in the DBD when more people are reading. I think that study was summarized here so someone might have more detail. But yeah you’re right I think the study said its better to go for it.
I just hate punting on 4th and 1 when you’re around midfield.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 20, 2009 10:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I posted a DBD whose theme was a study similar to the one you describe. Check it out, it might be what you are looking for.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 20, 2009 10:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which one, Berk?
Ty,
Berk…how do I find it? did u only post one DBD?
BTW, JT will go for it on fourth ONLY if it is a yard or less, and can be done w a sneak.
Pete Carroll, Otoh, is not shy about it at all. U$C was 3 for 4 on 4th vs Ohio.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 10:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Primo, click on the blue bolded text in Berkelium’s comment above. That’s a link.
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by Avinash on Sep 20, 2009 10:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
tyvm
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 21, 2009 2:12 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
My quick thoughts on the game:
(1) Riley is still missing high on a fair amount of his throws. This worries me a lot.
(2) I would’ve love to see Shane and JB on the field at the same time. It creates the potential for great misdirection plays.
(3) We had a lot less pre-snap motion than we did the first few games.
(4) Our zone is still really susceptible to being picked apart over the middle.
(5) Our D-Line is giving me a lot of hope. Alalu in particular is playing GREAT.
(6) I’m loving the play-action we’re running. Riley seems to be running it really well. Also, the two QB sneaks were good plays (though on the second one we were 1-2 yards short).
(7) Knowing how the game ended, I’m glad it was close. This will hopefully serve as a kick in the pants before the Oregon game.
by rjnarayen on Sep 19, 2009 2:18 PM PDT reply actions 2 recs
Shane and JB were on the field together for a few plays, and they seemed a little confused what to do in those situations, except for when JB was lined up out wide as a receiver.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 2:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess I"m just thinking of that play last game where Jahvid broke a 30 yard run (would’ve been a 70 yard TD but he stepped out). We faked the toss one way to Shane and then JB took it the other way. With so much speed in the backfield it has to be hard on the defense.
by rjnarayen on Sep 19, 2009 2:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I was looking for that play on a few occassions today, like a misdirection on 3rd and short. Maybe saving it for next week?
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 2:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let's hope this is a coaching tactic, too...
Don’t show everyone everything every game. We did run the fly sweep a couple of times – but not too much. It leaves the option to run it 20 times in a game that needs it!
I liked how we came out pass happy at one point late in the game – though we had clearly established the run early on. Willing to switch it up is VERY important to hurt the enemy defense.
After 3 games, I’m ready to say our offense is MUCH less predictable vs. last years. I cannot call pre-snap run/pass nearly as well as I did last year. That’s GREAT
Stand the whole game, stay to the end, and start yelling while they're still in the huddle. GO BEARS
by JerrottWillard45 on Sep 19, 2009 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. 8 Cal needed this win to be taken seriously as a BCS contender, but the way it went down — with Riley and the Bears responding beautifully to adversity — should be a huge confidence-booster heading into another tough road date next week at Oregon and then a potential Armageddon home date with No. 3 USC.
I like the line the media is taking.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 2:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If this game had been at home it’d have been a different tune, but a road victory in college football, esp OOC, gets major props.
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by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 2:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
not just OOC but against Big 10 too
i like the story, thanks to SI for taking us seriously, but maybe they were motivated to tow a straight line because they knew that the east coast was watching more closely than usual.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 2:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is spin: instead of saying “Cal took until halfway through the 4th to dominate like they were expected to”, they’re saying that Cal “responded beautifully to adversity”.
Don’t get me wrong, I like that they’re spinning for us. But it is spin.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 2:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the beauty of low expectations for Cal on the road.
by turkey on Sep 19, 2009 2:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 2:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's not spin, at all
That’s just dispassionate, sound observation. Cal’s win today reminds me so much of the sort of methodical road victories that Top Ten teams routinely grind out, week after week. This was a very solid win by a very good team. We need to remember that: (1) Cal never trailed, (2) Minnesota never seriously threatened to take the lead, and (3) Cal absolutely dominated the line of scrimmage and owned the fourth quarter.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
When a top 10 team gains a total of 10 yards over the course of 20 minutes (5 three and outs in a row), that is neither methodical nor dominating.
It’s spin in the sense that Cal wasn’t really responding to adversity – there shouldn’t have been adversity playing against Minnesota in the first place.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree that this wasn’t a “dominating” performance overall, but along the line of scrimmage, Cal was in control throughout. Yes, the run game sputtered badly in the third quarter, but Riley still had the time he needed to make the throws he needed. (BTW, great blitz pickup by Best on that crucial throw to Ross.)
I also stick by “methodical” because over the course of 60 minutes, Cal did everything good teams do to win on the road:
- score early
- control the line of scrimmage
- stop the opponent’s run game
- don’t turn the ball over
- make game-winning plays in the 4th quarter, just like USC (used to be able to do)
As good (great?) as I think this Cal team is becoming, it’s really asking a lot for an offense to never have stretches where first downs are hard to come by. Getting all 11 guys to execute and to not get beat by 11 other guys who are also scholarship athletes on the other side of the ball is no simple matter, especially on the road. Even the plays Minnesota did make today, I’m more inclined to tip my cap to them rather than point the finger at any errors by the Bears. (The one exception probably being the second touchdown right before halftime. That was a bad one to give up, and Hagan should have done much better.) Likewise, the one turnover and few penalties made by the Bears weren’t glaringly bad, either. An unlucky bounce here. An slightly mistimed, overzealous hit there. An iffy call by the official. In short, very little today got me frustrated or upset with the way Cal was playing. Could they have killed off the game earlier? Of course. Should they have? Maybe. But I’m more lenient when it comes to week 3 of the season and road game #1, even for a team ranked 8th in the country.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 6:35 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
Yeah, don’t get me wrong, they played great. I just think there was a drop-off during that period that would have hurt us a lot against a stronger opponent.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 8:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You wouldn’t call having the ball with a tie game at the 25 yard line “never seriously threaten(ing) to take the lead”?
Sure, they weren’t knocking on the door, but possession with decent field position (AKA not pinned in their own end) and a tie game seems to be the very definition of “threatening to take the lead.”
Thing C
by markdash on Sep 19, 2009 5:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the context of a game in which Minnesota’s offense struggled to move the football, I would not call that “threatening to take the lead.” I don’t know; I’ve spent a lifetime being nervous about the outcome of Cal football games, but for some reason, this one just felt to me like the Bears were always in control.
Now, if they hadn’t converted that big third-down pass to Ross and been forced to punt from deep within Cal territory, then yes, my worry level would have increased significantly.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 6:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve spent 13 years being nervous (or worse) about the outcome of Cal football games, and I was pretty damn convinced that we were going to lose the game at that point. Old habits die hard, I guess.
Thing C
by markdash on Sep 19, 2009 6:49 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Believe me, I understand. And I will almost certainly be right there with you next Saturday. Games at Autzen kill me.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 7:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s what made the Marcus Ezeff game so gratifying—I completely expect us to lose in Autzen every year.
This year is really no exception, sadly. Had the Ducks lost to the Utes, I might have been singing a different tune.
Thing C
by markdash on Sep 19, 2009 7:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe their complete and total inability to pass will be difficult to overcome. Our D has completely shut down opponent’s running game and forced them to pass. Minn had so much success today, because their passing game (and, in specific, Decker) was spectacular.
Can Oregon do the same?
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 7:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
no. And, Decker should have been shadowed better. Similarly, Conte should devise a scheme to shadow Masoli….his danger is not in his arm. Remember a few years back, when we had a “Rover” DB? Why not now, with say, Cattouse?
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 12:20 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why are Cal fans so hesitant to give credit where credit is due? Decker was a monster out there. Hes not some back up Arizona RB who just happened to run wild on us.
He is a NFL-caliber player. Yes, we didn’t do a great job on covering him, but let’s also give him credit for being a great player. Especially considering we smacked him all day long and he kept coming back for more.
I have all the respect in the world for him. If I had been hit the way Cattouse hit him, I’d still be in the fetal position!!!!
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 8:03 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I definitely thought he was dead for a bit.
Decker is awesome, but he is far and away their best player. He should have been priority number 1,2, and 3 for coverage.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 20, 2009 9:33 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m no super genius here, so maybe this is a question better left for the HydroTechs of the world. But it would seem to me that if we play zone, we don’t technically focus our D. So, there is not really a priority 1 2 or 3 here. But maybe I’m mistaking something.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 9:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m guessing people are angry that Decker wasn’t heavily covered to begin with, or that Gregory didn’t really change his ways to cover him.
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by Avinash on Sep 20, 2009 12:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just think that after he had several big catches, some adjustment should have been made to try and prevent that from happening again.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 20, 2009 4:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess it’s sort of like when Randy Moss goes 8 recs for 111 yards including huge leaping grabs that no defender could grab, and you say “HOW COULD THE DEFENSE LET THAT HAPPEN?”
Hopefully Decker turns into the type of player that justifies that sort of discussion.
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by Avinash on Sep 20, 2009 5:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That might be just a slight exaggeration. I don’t think Decker is quite in the Randy Moss tier yet.
Are you saying there’s nothing Cal could have done to slow him down? FYI, here are his 8 receptions:
4, 26 (TD), 12 (TD), 2, 23 (1D), 17 (1D), 11 (1D), 24 (1D)
This discussion would probably be aided if we knew how many targets he got, but I don’t think anyone keeps that data.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 20, 2009 5:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nor is out pass defense, as a whole, in the NFL team tier yet.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 20, 2009 9:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah exactly. Decker is a very difficult cover for any college defense.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 20, 2009 10:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How is that spin? That assumes that we were to “dominate” this team. What did we know of Cal before? That they destroyed 2 teams at home that were good to mediocre. We didn’t know how good they truly were.
We also knew that Cal was 1-4 on the road last year. We also knew that Minn has a hostile environment.
I see some people anticipating that we would “dominate” like we “should” have. Why should we have dominated them?
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because this team is really really good, while Minnesota is good but not really really good.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 4:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shit man, we should’ve won by FIFTY. FITTY.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 4:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought 30, but sure 50 if you want.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was screaming for a 2-point conversion on the last TD….only because I lost a lot of $$$ betting on Cal -14.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 12:22 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Huh?
We won by 14. Don’t you split and get your money back?
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 20, 2009 1:04 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No sympathy for flaunting the easiest-to-follow rule of gambling: don’t bet on your favorite team.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 20, 2009 1:20 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought the easiest-to-follow rule of gambling was: Don’t talk about Fight Club?
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 8:03 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have you ever actually tried that though? I mean you try and you try and then you meet a cute girl and it’s all Chuck Palahniuk this and Chuck Palahniuk that. It’s inescapable.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 20, 2009 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
But, to date, based on what? We beat EWU by a lot. They are 1-AA. We beat Maryland by a lot. They are nowhere as good as you might think.
We have no solid data points for this team. What we do know is that Cal on the road has not been the same team in the past few years than at home.
Did I expect that we would win? Yes. Did I expect that we would dominate? Based on all the information I had before me, no. I thought we just had to minimize stupid turn overs and we could have a solid victory.
And guess what? We minimized stupid turn overs and we won by 2 TDs on the road. That=great!
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:30 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Based on my bad analysis? The first quarter was a tease. We have the ability to play like that. And when the team is playing like that, they can beat anybody in the country. I guess the problem is that the 3rd quarter really sticks out, and so that is what I am thinking about when I think of the game.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 19, 2009 4:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's the problem
You’re basing your assessment on the terrible Q3. Fine, we all saw it, we all know it happened. But we also had an awesome Q1 and Q4 that you need to recognize. It wasn’t a tease because we scored 28 points (enough to have won the game) in those two quarters.
I don’t care if we’d won by one on a returned 2pt conversion. The fact of the matter is, we won. On the road. Against an undefeated team playing in a new stadium with a sold-out crowd.
Get a hold of yourself and stop being so emotional.
by Nashville on Sep 19, 2009 4:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
So…..your blood pressure doesn’t go up when only one of 5 KO’s land in the paint, and the other 4 are between the 15 and 25? Or, do u just feel warm and fuzzy by the Special Teams play, in general? All the other breakdowns and analysees can be intended to “hide” the real offense, but, no one is getting fooled by our kicker or returns.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 12:29 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think there is anybody here HAPPY by the special team problems. However, I think Nashville is trying to put everything into a context. Look at things in a very rational fashion.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 8:04 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Doc Saturday's thoughts
But his school-record-tying five touchdown runs today — two in the first half of the first quarter and two more after Minnesota rallied to tie at 21-21 in the fourth — on 150 total yards only confirmed his status as the one skill player in whose hands you want the ball more than anyone else’s, under pretty much any circumstances. Best ran the gamut today, first on spectacular runs (two 25-plus-yard touchdowns, the first of which should be quickly posterized on highlight reels; see above), as a receiver and decoy who can line up all over the field and finally as a workhorse who ran eight times — all for short gains — with a pair of touchdowns on the Bears’ icing drives in the fourth. In terms of awards, that may not get him very far; it wasn’t even as dominating a performance as I predicted for him this morning.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 19, 2009 2:22 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Here are Best’s rushes this game:
6, 3, 0, 33, 25, 2, 4, 6, 3, 2, 5, 27, -2, 1, 5, -2, -1, 2, 3, 1, 5, 3, 2, -5, -3, 6
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 19, 2009 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
for those stats geeks:
average = 5 yards
median = 3 yards
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 19, 2009 2:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Those runs at the end were garbage runs, with less than a minute left.
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 19, 2009 6:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Top 10 Plays
Best’s first TD made ESPN’s Top 10 Plays reel (~#7?), which will help with that “rest of the world ignores the west coast” bias. Good on ya’, JB.
I'd like to smell the Roses before I die.
by BTown85 on Sep 20, 2009 9:45 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Daily Gopher has its postgame report up
You can’t clasify this as a heart-breaker and Cal didn’t exactly steal one from the Gophers but this was a game where we had a chance to upset one of the 10 best teams in the country. This also isn’t a moral victory, we lost and there was clearly a feeling of missed opportunity from the players and Coach Brewster following the game. But I firmly believe things can be taken from this game that will make this team better and we are much more prepared to face anybody in the Big Ten after hanging tough with Cal.
First of all, Cal won this game. They are clearly a more talented team and over the course of four quarters their talent won out.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 2:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Congratulations on the Win
You guys earned the win today. And I’m on the Best for Heisman campaign. He’s got to be the fastest guy I’ve ever seen in person. That 1st TD run was disgusting.
Also, I’d like to tip my hat to your fans. Everyone I ran into today was great. You guys are alot of fun, and I’d like to run into you again.
Good luck the rest of the way, especially against LA’s professional team.
by WhiteSpeedReceiver on Sep 19, 2009 4:30 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
Yes, I, too, hope we do great against UCLA.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The new monopoly?
UCLA = Mediterranean Ave.
USC = Baltic Ave.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 7:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice, classy response. You Gophers have a cool stadium and you should do some damage in the Big Ten.
Costs assessed against Twist
by CALumbus Bear on Sep 19, 2009 7:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Minnesota Fans
Are the nicest, and you guys have great beer too! Minnesota fans were high-fiving us after Cal plays? how nice is that? (really it happened, would we do that at home?)
by Cugel on Sep 20, 2009 10:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
There has been a lot of complaints about the special teams. In many ways, I agree. I would say 2 things in contra point:
1. D’Amato’s missed field goal was not an easy one. 48 yards and from an extreme angle.
2. Anger had some AMAZING punts. I think he had a 70 yard punt at one point! Close.
Our kick off coverage and punt returns continue to befuddle, but its not all disaster.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 4:49 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
If you want to treat the missed FG as a “no loss” play (i.e. worth a shot and found money if it works), that’s fine.
And yes, Anger was quite good punting the ball.
But the kickoffs were TERRIBLE, the punt coverage team had that turnover, and there was also the personal foul by the punt coverage team. Even if you ignore the missed FG, the special teams still had a pretty terrible day.
Thing C
by markdash on Sep 19, 2009 5:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
We appear to be in agreement. Generally, it was terrible, but it was not all disaster.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 5:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t know if you read the report cards, but I gave the special teams a D-. It wasn’t a total loss; there wasn’t more than 1 turnover, and there wasn’t a long return for a TD. But short of those two things, not much went right for our special needs teams.
Thing C
by markdash on Sep 19, 2009 5:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Im not entirely sure how to read the report cards. Avi might be the only one who can.
I would give them a C-. Slightly better than you, but still not great.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 5:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m probably being a little hasty; I didn’t really consider the punting game (mostly because I was in another room chasing my 1 year old son when Anger hit his long one). But we do both agree that it was a substandard effort.
Any chance Tedford re-re-evaluates the kickoff team, namely the gentleman putting his boot to the ball?
Thing C
by markdash on Sep 19, 2009 5:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well he did halfway through the game, bc I believe that D’Amato was doing kick offs at the tail end of the game.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 5:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
When he actually kicked one that LANDED in the end zone, I fell off my couch and it took me several minutes to recover. I don’t believe we actually landed one in the end zone since the ’07 season.
Costs assessed against Twist
by CALumbus Bear on Sep 19, 2009 7:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How many pairs of Cal Bears jammies did you tear while falling off your couch?
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 7:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Although I didn’t have on any Cal-logoed lower torso clothing at that moment, just this morning I received and put on display my Tedford-autographed football. And I believe that football almost fell off its display, as it nearly died of a heart attack seeing a good Cal kickoff.
Costs assessed against Twist
by CALumbus Bear on Sep 19, 2009 7:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
DONT UPSET THE AUTOGRAPHED FOOTBALL OF POWER!
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 7:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I soothed it, and said “don’t worry, you likely won’t be surprised again by a good Cal kick.” And damn if I wasn’t correct for the rest of the game.
Costs assessed against Twist
by CALumbus Bear on Sep 19, 2009 7:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wasn't he also the one who kicked it to the 20?
by rurata on Sep 19, 2009 11:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, he reverted to the shitty mean pretty damn quick, lest the universe fall out of balance
Costs assessed against Twist
by CALumbus Bear on Sep 20, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
An open call to students for kickers should produce at least one soccer player who can kick the ball into the endzone and maybe even make some fieldgoals a la Doug Brien
by YleeXOtee on Sep 19, 2009 8:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Texas Tech did this last year and the guy is now their full time kicker.
by rjnarayen on Sep 19, 2009 8:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Personal Foul on coverage
I’ll take Isi’s speed and aggressiveness on that one. Freshman mistake but the kind you like to see, even if it costs some yards. JBest was a freshman gunner to rattle the receiver and get potential fumbles, while Isi’s a gunner to drill people. He’ll get his timing down and lower his helmet and then be really dangerous. Bummer? Yes. Encouraging in the long run? Definitely.
I'd like to smell the Roses before I die.
by BTown85 on Sep 20, 2009 9:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats why you saw Tedford hugging Sofele on the sideline instead of tearing into him. That or Tedford has a huge crush.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 9:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anger was good, but not quite to form. He had 2 long punts, and 1 was because it took a fovorable roll. He only had one booooming kick.
Not that I’m complaining, but just saying.
CGB: Wasting Your Potential, Your Time, & Your Life Since 2006.
by BearStage on Sep 19, 2009 11:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Was irritated by the camera never following Anger’s punt skyward….never. So had a hard time judging how good, from the typical “oooooooaaaahhhhhhhh!!!!” kicks Anger has made us use to.
JT cannot put another kicker on the team who is not a Cal Student, now. So, no surprise Juco walkons or hidden 6th year eligible kickers who just re-enrolled. How bout Rugby?…or, do they just drop kick?
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 12:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the paint
I think that was D’Amato’s kick which went into the End Zone, but, no matter. His next 2 mirrored Taveccio.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Adam Rittenberg's ESPN Big 10 Blog talks about us
If Tedford could have scripted a game to prepare Cal for the rigors ahead, Saturday’s contest would come pretty close. After two blowout wins, Cal needed some adversity, and it got plenty in this one.
Couldn’t agree more with that sentiment. I think we needed to face some adversity going into Pac-10 play, and although I’m not happy with some of the things I saw (cough ALAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAR cough) I think the way we won will help us out in the long run.
by Sharkbit12 on Sep 19, 2009 5:03 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Fun fact
Adam Rittenberg is a Cal grad.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 19, 2009 5:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m currently at grad school and umn and was at this game. The feeling in the stands was that the game was too close for comfort, but the crowd was really riled and we absolutely got hosed on two key plays (the “p.i.” and the “hold”), along with a few other questionable calls (I need to take another look at the punt return personal foul and on one of minnesota’s final drives it really looked like weber went past the line of scrimmage). The way I saw it, this is the first time since Oregon 07 that a legit bcs team punched us on the mouth and we got right back up and took them to the woodshed in the fourth quarter. I’m concerned about special teams play and Riley made a few questionable decisions and bad throws, but given our road woes over the past three years, I’ll take it.
by dchu on Sep 19, 2009 6:46 PM PDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs
I just finished re-watching the game
Great win, showed a ton of grit, and we played well enough to take it away from Minny.
No doubt, Riley got pretty lucky on not being picked twice.
Minny’s D seemed to play better late in the game, when I was expecting them to be winded and allow some big runs. That they didn’t allow those big runs makes me worried. Perhaps our line got more tired. They didn’t allow sacks late, tho, which means there weren’t that far off.
Our run D gets an A.
Costs assessed against Twist
by CALumbus Bear on Sep 19, 2009 7:15 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Our run D gets an A.
If only there was a place where you could officially register your grade with the mods of this site.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 7:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I got something to register with the mods of this site. RIGHT HERE IN MY PANTS
Costs assessed against Twist
by CALumbus Bear on Sep 19, 2009 7:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is it a Tedford autographed football? Because I could use one of those.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 7:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry, but I can't leave this alone
When Cal’s offense bogged down, was it b/c of poor play calling—in particular, the dreaded repeated “run up the middle”?
Drive #1 (end of 2nd quarter): 3 runs, 5 yards. Punt.
Looks bad, but in the situation, with Cal on top 21-7, backed up on their 7 with just over two minutes left in the half, I don’t mind the conservative play calling. The strategy backfired, as Minnesota still scored before halftime to get back into the game. But I blame this on Anger and the defense, who simply did not do their jobs, not the offense.
Drive #2 (10 minutes left, 3rd quarter): 3 runs, 9 yards. Punt.
Cal has just got the ball back on a fumble, which was a nice response by the defense following the punt miscue. Maybe something creative on 1st or 2nd down would have been nice, but Best nonetheless gets six yards on two runs to set up a very manageable 3rd and 4. QB draw by Riley on third down comes up a yard short. Maybe this is a series to criticize the play calling. But again, in a game that suddenly has been beset by turnovers, I don’t really fault Ludwig for wanting to reestablish the running game and consume some clock. They just fell a yard short.
Drive #3 (6 minutes left, 3rd quarter): two passes, one run, eight yards. Punt.
After a three-and-out by the Gophers, Cal gets the ball back in good field position. Following an incomplete pass on first down—not a “run up the middle”—a screen pass on second down sets up third and short. But a handoff to Vereen gains no yards. I will never have a problem with running the ball on 3rd and 2. The Bears just need to execute better, and to get their fullbacks healthy.
Drive #4 (30 seconds left, 3rd quarter): four passes, one penalty, minus five yards. Punt.
Minnesota has just tied the game, and Cal’s offense stalls again. But please note, this was emphatically not a case of “running up the middle”. Instead, a holding penalty and some missed throws killed this series.
The next two times the Bears get the ball, they score touchdowns to win the game. Yes, the offense failed to produce on these four consecutive series, but I see no obvious reason why play calling is the culprit. And each series it seemed to be something different. A missed throw. A penalty. A failure to pick up a couple of yards on third and short. But then Riley connects on third and long the next series, and the offense is running smoothly again. Football’s a funny game; one play here, another there, and everything seems to change.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 19, 2009 7:45 PM PDT reply actions 4 recs
Football’s a funny game; one play here, another there, and everything seems to change.
One might say it is a game of inches.
Costs assessed against Twist
by CALumbus Bear on Sep 19, 2009 7:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
TWSS
CGB: Wasting Your Potential, Your Time, & Your Life Since 2006.
by BearStage on Sep 19, 2009 11:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ugh...
I know I am here all the time, probably too much, but what’s TWSS?
by CaliforniaCMB on Sep 20, 2009 11:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This clip should explain it
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 20, 2009 11:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's what she said
In other words, Go Bears!
by royrules22 on Sep 21, 2009 8:43 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It sounds like you are more concerned with the execution of the play calling than the play calling.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 19, 2009 8:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m simply concerned about the creation of play calls.
by turkey on Sep 19, 2009 8:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great post, Pete.
The weird thing is that Cal scored 5 TDs and missed 1 FG. That’s 6 productive drives. They punted 6 times (and one of the punts was at the end of the game when there was no doubt in the outcome).
If you told me Cal would score on half their drives before the game I would have said OK, fine. But because Cal grouped the successful drives in the 1st and 4th quarter it looks worse than it was.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 19, 2009 8:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I question calling the attempted FG a successful drive. We know D’Amato doesn’t have a great leg, I really thought that was the wrong playcall.
by rjnarayen on Sep 19, 2009 9:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This game was saved by the 4th-quarter false-start penalty. Without that, we don’t get another shot at 3rd and long, we don’t score the touchdown to re-take the lead, and then who the hell knows what happens.
CGB: Wasting Your Potential, Your Time, & Your Life Since 2006.
by BearStage on Sep 19, 2009 11:35 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Again, I'm new here but...
California Pete pwns the thread. Just some downright eloquent and concise breakdowns of the game today. Wow.
There's no "I" in team, but there is in WIN-- Michael Jordan.
by dirt on Sep 19, 2009 11:42 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Ya, I am appreciative of his calm and reasonable breakdown. There are some very negative people posting about this game. Which I get that we want Cal to exceed at every level. And after the last 2 games where we played nearly perfect football, I woulda loved to see another 55-13 game.
But, on the road, where Cal has struggled mightily in the past, this game was a revelation. Last year’s team would have lost this game, I predict.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 8:06 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But this year’s team is better than last year’s team. Significantly.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 20, 2009 9:34 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
And they revealed that information yesterday! Before yesterday’s game, we had 2 dominating performances against sub-par opponents. I mean last year in the first 2 games, we probably played better than this year in our first 2 games. We crushed WSU on the road and we had a solid victory at home against a good MSU team (not in that order). This year, we crushed 2 bad teams at home.
So, we really didn’t know whether this team was better, really, until yesterday. Forget paper, rollonubears. Forget your expectations. Look at what we’ve accomplished on the field and who we have accomplished it against and then I think you’ll be more reasonable.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 9:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
then I think you’ll be more reasonable.
Never going to happen.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 20, 2009 12:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
banned…….banned before he was old enough to drive
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 20, 2009 10:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Commenting on the comments
Anyone who was not bothered by the lack of O production in the middle stretch is a homer, and not dealing with reality. (Cal Pete’s analysis of that stretch is spot on, though).
Anyone who is not pleased with a 2 TD win on the road, where best scores 5 TDs, and is apparently healthy, needs to drink more during the games and shut up afterwards. The W counts, and it counts big. We’ll probably be ranked #6 tomorrow, and weeks like this don’t come around anytime you want them. Enjoy it dammit.
It’s OK if like me you got very worried in the middle, and when it was tied and Minnesota had the ball on our 25 you didn’t want to talk to anybody and had bad feelings in your stomach (that’s b/c you care!). It’s OK if you started to worry your hopes of going undefeated, earning respect, beating teams on the road on national TV, etc., were going to be dashed.
It’s not OK if you gave up on the Bears. It’s not OK if you turned it off b/c you couldn’t bear to watch.
It’s OK if you tried to mentally prepare yourself for a loss. It’s not OK if you thought we couldn’t come back to win and that we sucked.
It’s OK to want better kick-offs. It’s not OK to think we didn’t have great D out there on the road today. INCLUDING against an All-American like Decker. We limited Decker. Believe it.
That was an achievement most DI schools can only dream of. And only a few of them could achieve on any given Saturday.
We did it and I think we earned a lot of respect today!
We might have blown it and lost a lot of respect – and that happened to a bunch of teams today. Not to us!
We need to focus on Oregon next. That game is winnable – and it’s losable.
I think I learned that the Pac-10 is very dangerous this year. @ Washington in December is NOT looking better.
Stand the whole game, stay to the end, and start yelling while they're still in the huddle. GO BEARS
by JerrottWillard45 on Sep 20, 2009 12:45 AM PDT reply actions 4 recs
well put. I was more irritated by the refs than our D, and very happy to hear all the announcers noting Best’s 5 TD’s, while showing clips of Tebow barking like a mad dog at his teamates.
I think the wins by WA and OR will not go unnoticed, and should help Cal’s BCS image to find 5 Pac-Ten teams in AP Monday or Tuesday. I can’t remember two more important games than the next two…..and hope like Hell those Norhern Purple Dawgs don’t get much better.
Cal has moved up 2 ranking spots per week for the last 3 weeks should now be at 6.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 12:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for the kind words! And I agree will all of the above, too—especially a tail end of the schedule (Stanford, Washington) that’s looking less and less like a cakewalk. First things first: Oregon. This season is only just beginning.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 20, 2009 7:37 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno, Stanford looks pretty unspectacular. I mean, they did get Jim Grobe’d just last week.
"Let me tell you a story. I was a political prisoner for two years. The instant I was released I ran to McDonald's. I had a Big Mac and a Coke.
It was fantastic."
-Toyama Koichi, US Presidential candidate from Japan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGZqOkeYbB0
by AERose on Sep 20, 2009 1:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heres the difference between a Cal fan and a USC fan. When Minn tied it up yesterday, I was an inconsolable mess, pacing endlessly around my friend’s apartment. I’m reasonably sure at that time, he never wanted to watch a game with me again. Which would suck, because he’s got like a 60 inch HD! Gotta stay on those people’s good sides!
A friend of mine, who is a USC grad and a USC fan, I’ve seen him when USC is playing down to an opponent. He’s so calm and relaxed. I’ll mock him and he’ll say “Just wait, just wait, we’ll win this one, don’t worry.” And then, they do.
We don’t have that history of coming back in big games on the road. So, we freak the FUCK out. I mean Minn never led for a second in this game. Ever! And, except for the 3rd quarter, we looked pretty damn good. There certainly were some execution problems in the 3rd quarter, no doubting that. And I hope that Tedford takes a strong look at those for next week.
But now is the time for us Cal fans to start acting more like USC fans. Except for the rampant asshole-ness. ;)!
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 8:10 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
As far as asshole-ness goes, rampant is the best kind. Much better than, say, serendipitous asshole-ness.
Go Bears!
by California Pete on Sep 20, 2009 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
2007/2008 trained me well for the 3rd quarter. I just found my zen place and went with it…
by turkey on Sep 21, 2009 10:00 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was never scared
WE were going to win this game, that the way the team played (OK not special teams) and that’s what I saw.
by Cugel on Sep 20, 2009 10:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brilliant
Just read this thread from top to bottom…a remarkably thoughtful, passionate, funny and just damn smart group of folks…thank you all for really making the CAL insane fan bleeding old blue while running around our respective houses/apartments not tipping over trophy footballs when we are in a tight game experience so much better for all of us…so glad I found this blog.
GO BEARS
by TKE Prytanis 79 on Sep 20, 2009 8:21 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Thank you, I believe I deserve all the credit there! GO ME! Also, Bears.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 8:27 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, thats waht I meant…GO YOU
by TKE Prytanis 79 on Sep 20, 2009 9:17 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
A Little Late To The Party
Some quick thoughts:
1. First of all, thank you CGB for the open threads during the games. I have to work on Saturdays and cannot stream the games, so I follow the action on the CGB threads. And it’s the next best thing to actually watching the game. I went through all the emotions, from the euphoric first couple of drives, to sweating through the middle two quarters and despairing that the Bears would fold up again on the road, to responding with joy to the clutch catches by Ross and the Best TDs, etc. — all via your comments. Great stuff.
2. I have not watched the game yet (downloading right now), but wanted to say this: regardless of how we played, it’s a great win. There is a reason it’s called HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE. The crowd can energize the home team and influence the action on the field. Minnesota is a great second half team this year and we limited them to one TD. These kids aren’t pros, and the vast majority of their experience on the road thus far (from late 2007-present) has been experiencing an L. We could have easily folded. This is a team still learning how to win away from Memorial. You gotta crawl before you can walk and the Bears made a huge first step.
3. The media all seems to agree that this was a gritty win for Cal and makes them legit. I’ll take it!
4. Is this finally Alamar’s last season?
by KikiRevenge on Sep 20, 2009 8:44 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Eyeblack
What did #4 (J. Best) have written on the eyeblack under his, you know, eyes?
What did it mean?
Thanks.
jh
by Jake88 on Sep 20, 2009 9:27 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I think it said “707” which would be the area code for Vallejo, his home town.
by CalBandGreat on Sep 20, 2009 9:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The other one said “Heem.” I have no idea what that is. A friend? A loved one? A misspelling of his favorite slang term for Hebrew? I don’t know.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 10:00 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gracias
I even looked it up on the inter-web and that didn’t see to add up.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=heem
jh
(805!)
by Jake88 on Sep 20, 2009 12:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You sure he just isn’t a kitten enthusiast?
A furry, fat, orange cat. Much like the cartoon garfield.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure how I feel about it if it is a slang for Hennessey, lol. Kinda silly.
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 20, 2009 10:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The first step to getting better is Jahvid Best admitting he has an alcohol problem.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 10:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
hard to get better when you’re already the Best
At CGB, we whine because we care
by dballisloose on Sep 20, 2009 10:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In case you haven't seen it yet
We’re up to 6 in the AP rankings.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 20, 2009 10:07 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Cal #6 in the Coaches’ Poll as well
Coaches’ Poll also has some delightful weirdness like:
Ohio St. is only 5 points short of being ahead of USC
BYU is 5 SLOTS ahead of Florida St.
Oklahoma St. still well ahead of Houston. But at least the coaches ranked Houston this week. Progress!
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 20, 2009 10:26 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
We’re 5th AND 7th in ESPN’s fan poll. But USC is probably that #7 team.
Whose domicile? OUR DOMICILE!
by Berkelium97 on Sep 20, 2009 11:12 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, great news, I just checked and we’re 6 in the AP ran………………oh, goddamn it Berkelium, everytime! EVERYTIME YOU BEAT ME!
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 10:14 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
A couple of thoughts ...
First off, I honestly don’t get the feeling that we somehow should have won 100 – 0 here. Not only is Minnesota a pretty good team, but this sort of thing just smacks of USC or Ucla arrogance. You young Cal fans really need to get a grip here!
You have to keep in mind that other teams play with pride and have some talent. And when they are at home, they are also playing with emotion and desire. Winning against a team on the road is never easy — even if you are playing someone like Wazzu.
So, having Minnesota play tough, score points, tie the game, and make plays isn’t an indictment of Cal as much as it is a testament to the fact that their players and team isn’t about to just roll over because we came a-calling.
Yes, there were moments when Cal looked confused, tired, sloppy, etc. Just like in every game. But, the impressive thing, and what you young Cal fans need to keep in your heads, is that this team showed some spine, heart and desire to shake off the inevitable Minnesota come-back, and take command of the game again. See the freaking glass as half-full when there’s cause, kids!
Seriously, let’s not become the sort of fan-base that forgets that other teams are also playing to win, and become the sort of cocky, arrogant pricks we disdain in other programs. This was a game Cal should have won. We did. This was a game Cal should have won by at least two touchdowns. We did. This was a game where Cal would be tested. We were. And we passed.
Just a few words of widsom from an Old Blue (Class of ’87)
Go Bears.
Mark it "8", Dude.
by SoCal Oski on Sep 20, 2009 10:37 AM PDT reply actions 5 recs
Ditto
…From an older blue, class of 79. Keep perspective folks….Number effing 6 in the nation, tough road victory, a generally healthy team, legit Heisman candidate…I could go on…is it that folks think seeing the upside creates some cosmic negative mojo for which they are accountable, or are they simply innoculating themselves from the inevitable disappointments that come with being college football fans….lets just celebrate now, learn from how we can improve ( in other words keep the killer analysis coming CGB experts) and get ready to kick Oregons ass..
Go Bears
by TKE Prytanis 79 on Sep 20, 2009 11:36 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well said
SoCal Oski. The only real concern is special teams. Absolutely zero improvement in three games.
by KikiRevenge on Sep 20, 2009 10:43 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Proud of Our Bears
This would have been more interesting and possibly more coherent yesterday whilst in the throes o’ revelry, but having just re-watched most of the game:
1) As a Cal fan for the past 3 decades, I still marvel how we lucked into Coach Tedford. There had to have been some nefarious under the table exchange for souls and/or firstborns. “You want a real coach? Okay, but keep in mind that thou shalt never cover a tight-end in the middle.”
“Meh. We don’t do that anyway. Deal.”
“Oh, also, you have to keep this Alamar fellow. He’s the 3rd cousin twice removed of an inbred and mentally incapacitated branch of the family. I lost a drinking bet and owe a favor.”
“Sigh Fine.”
2) Perspective-wise, it’s a heckuva a lot better to be grousing that we “only” won and didn’t dominate instead of worrying whether we can beat stinkin’ Rutgers to avoid going winless.
3) There were years where the kicker was our best player. Think on that for a sec and weep a little inside. I still do.
4) Hagan. Poor guy had rough day, no question. It’d be easier to be sympathetic if he didn’t strut so much. But maybe that swagger is also what helps him make plays. Before we fit his helmet with a “toast” or “drum” sticker, I’d want someone who knows more about football break down the scheme and where his help was supposed to be. For instance, I don’t blame him for Decker’s throwing TD. Great call, great play design, and I think Decker runs it in if Hagan stays w/ Gray anyway. Very strange that he’s on an island with no safety in sight, unless the safety bit really hard on the mis-direction. He made some mistakes, but I suspect the LB’s and safeties were also part of the crime scene.
5) Playcalling. I’ll admit it. I was grumbling a bit about all those non-productive runs up the middle. But looking back, both of Riley’s long passes to Ross were set-up with play action. And, Jahvid’s last TD run to the corner was set-up by motioning the WR from wide to tight…which had previously led to a power run up the middle all game long.
Some of the failed plays were good calls, but the D had the perfect counter…or made a great play. Vereen’s slip on 3rd and 2 comes to mind. Got to give them credit for being well-coached, sound, and tough enough to play through an early deficit.
It’s too early to say for sure, but the Ludwig/Tedford combo sure seems to be bringing back long-missing dynamic and innovative playcalling. I especially like how many plays have two or three options out of the same formation. I’m all for execution over gimickry, but keeping the defense off-balance at the same time just plain makes sense. Our first two drives were the best we’ve looked since the AR glory years.
6) I’m getting tired of typing this one handed with my 3month daughter draped over me – I’ll stop right there because this blog is much too classy to comment if I make some remark about getting really proficient using just one hand.
7) I love that we found a way to play through adversity. We lose this game last year. Remembering that these are college kids, it’s a big deal to develop the mental toughness to overcome bad breaks, questionable-to-lousy calls, and a hostile crowd.
8) We’d like our guys to win every game and to look good doing it. I’ll settle for the fact that they play hard, look well-coached (yes, with one dead-horse exception), and generally represent our school very well. Like every year, I hope this is the one.
Go Bears!
by Kodiak on Sep 20, 2009 11:38 AM PDT reply actions 4 recs
Brilliant recap…I agree with the kicking point. I bet we are the only team in the country that is fortunate enough that when you are asked for the team’s weakness everyone says in unison, “Kickoffs!” Seriously, nothing on offense, nothing on defense, not punting, not field goal kicking, but the depth of our kickoffs.
Alamar has been hit-or-miss but special teams really does come down to personnel – in 2007 we probably had the best special teams in the nation (Best on kick coverage, DeSean on punts, etc). If you don’t have a guy who can blast kickoffs I am not exactly sure that Alamar can change a whole lot.
Though I think Anger should get a chance, right?
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 20, 2009 12:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Negativity?
Some of you are complaining that people’s comments are too negative or arrogant.
Now, I don’t think anyone in this thread except rollonubears actually thought that Cal played badly. But there were definitely some problems (for example special teams, the 5 or 6 three-and-outs in a row mid-game).
So what’s wrong with pointing that out? Yeah, everyone’s happy we won, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be talking about where we can improve. If we’re going to have tougher opponents coming up, it will be important to address whatever weaknesses the team does have.
That’s not arrogance or pessimism, that’s common sense.
dboneisloose
by HolmoePhobe on Sep 20, 2009 5:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I didn’t think they played badly all game. They were dominant in the first quarter.
All aboard the Jahvid Best rickshaw!
by rollonubears on Sep 20, 2009 5:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am not trying to say “DONT SPEAK ABOUT ANY CONCERNS YOU MIGHT HAVE!” I guess there is just a difference between expressing concerns reasonably and unreasonably and I saw what I believed to be some unreasonable expressions of concern.
ALL HAIL SUPREME LEADER AVINASH!
www.CaliforniaGoldenBlogs.com
by TwistNHook on Sep 20, 2009 6:41 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think those comments are an overflow from the open threads yesterday, which were pretty negative
by Tedfordisgod on Sep 20, 2009 7:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think much of it was a tone issue. There’s a big difference between:
1. We need to find a way to play Decker. He’s beating our zone too easily
and
2. GODDAMN IT COVER DECKER WE’RE GOING TO LOSE WHY ARE WE ALWAYS OVERRATED!
Of course, that’s an exaggeration, but there was a surprising amount of despair during the gameday threads and in the immediate aftermath of the game.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 20, 2009 7:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think much of it was a tone issue. There’s a big difference between:
1. We need to find a way to play Decker. He’s beating our zone too easily
and
2. GODDAMN IT COVER DECKER WE’RE GOING TO LOSE WHY ARE WE ALWAYS OVERRATED!
Of course, that’s an exaggeration, but there was a surprising amount of despair during the gameday threads and in the immediate aftermath of the game.
The #1 greatest threat to America: BEARS
by norcalnick on Sep 20, 2009 7:48 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I am critical, and VERY happy!
As one of the oldest Bears here, I represent both those who have seen Holmoe and Snyder years, and losses to Furd which seemed like some curse. So, this year, I am running around in this euphoric fog, irritating the piss out of my uppity neighbors who know from experience my large Cal flag and all its festooned regalia will hang from the front porch til the Bears lose.
This Blog is part of my new smell-the-Roses experience, and I can’t say enough about the pleasure it brings. Sometimes I just read snappy dialogue without commenting, while the regular contributors and founders rip sharp digs at each other with some of the funniest rhetoric I have ever heard.
But the serious football reporting and analysis here has opened doors of interest and acumen I heretofore thought only existed in late nite Coaches phone calls, or pre-game war rooms. And I am still surprised to find some of my observations and comments stimulate response, both pro and con. On this blog, the greater majority of ideas appear to be treated as important and necessary, and a reminder of the quote from somone during the birth of our nation:" I may not agree with your opinion, but will fight to the death for your right to express it".
The point of this rambling blather is, while some may be critical of particular parts of yesterday’s, or any win, we are all here reading and writing to extend the new sensation we all seem to be experiencing as the Blue and Gold colors from the world’s #1 public University rush though our viens on the way to Pasadena. Thank you to all for the work you have done to create and contribute to CGB.
Bear danger
"Running away can activate the bear's hunting instincts and lead to it perceiving the human as prey. Finally, if a bear does attack, the usual advice is to curl into a [[fetal position]] so as to shield vital organs and appear non-threatening."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
by Primo on Sep 20, 2009 11:44 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
More detailed answers will be in the grading report but...
… I enjoyed the game. It was a great trip for me and a great game.
I’m generally HAPPY with the game. Were there flaws exposed? YES. Could we have done better? YES.
But I’m happy for one reason: We faced adversity ON THE ROAD and pulled away with a win. This wasn’t a clutch McKnight-style drive against OSU, it was just a Cal team saying “enough is enough” against a opponent that’s beneath them in talent and just getting it done.
In other words, Go Bears!
by royrules22 on Sep 20, 2009 5:43 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
To me, there’s a difference between a good game and a good win. I think it was a good win in that A) We won, B) The margin of victory was pretty good, C) it didn’t cause too many coronaries.
However, it also wasn’t a good game because Cal was clearly deficient in several areas. I would say that we played a slightly below average game overall.
Thing C
by markdash on Sep 20, 2009 8:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey Not fair!!
I just got back form Minnesota (And I will always be able to spell it). Damn you 9er traffic!
I don’t have time to fill out a report card but I have a lot to say ( I’m tired)
And Roy Rules is right!
by Cugel on Sep 20, 2009 9:58 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Cugel, post your report card in the morning, I won’t write it up until sometime tomorrow afternoon anyway.
Contact if you want to chat: bearsnecessities@gmail.com
by Avinash on Sep 20, 2009 10:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
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