Michalczik originally left Cal to become the offensive coordinator at Washington. But less than two months later, good friend Tom Cable had the interim tag removed as head coach of the Raiders and hired Michalczik as his offensive line coach. Michalczik was let go when Cable was not brought back after the 2010 season. Michalczik said he received some inquiries about NFL jobs but didn't entertain any other offers once he found out he could return to Cal. "I got some calls, but once I had the opportunity to come back here, I didn't look at anything else," he said. "Things kind of fell into place. I really believe in Cal football. I believe in Coach Tedford. I believe in the way things are done here."