McDaniels praised Thompson's work after Sunday's game, pointing out that he started 52 consecutive games for Cal, a school record.

"Every time he gets an opportunity, he makes the most of it, and I think that's what you want a rookie to do," McDaniels said. "The biggest thing to me is he keeps standing out in the kicking game — on the kickoff team, punt team. He's made some big tackles down there. I'm very pleased with his performance, and he continues to be a standout for us."