Cal Football 2011 First Looks: Potential Strengths

What do you believe will a pleasant surprise in 2011?

Avinash: The passing game. It can't possibly get worse than those last four games. The wide receiving corps should be much deeper next season with last year's class working their way into the rotation and Marvin Jones and Keenan Allen leading the way. I will take this back if Brock Mansion and Beau Sweeney get the nod as opening day starter, but I believe a young/new face will provide enthusiasm and optimism for our offense to work with. I have a good feeling that Austin Hinder could be the guy, although I'd be satisfied with Allan Bridgford as well.

Kodiak: Despite all the hand-wringing over the running game, I think we're going to be just fine there.  I'm also going to go out on a limb and predict that Giorgio will redeem himself as a senior.  He's going to win a game for us with some clutch kicking and the guys will carry him off the field on their shoulders.  Write that down.  You heard it here first. 

Berkelium97: The passing game.  Bridgford tosses an accurate ball and he'll have plenty of talented receivers.  I'd be surprised if the passing game is as great as it was under Longshore's first (full) year, but I have a feeling we'll be better than many people expect.  Michalzcik and Kiesau are big upgrades over their predecessors.

atomsareenough: I'm not worried about the RB position, really. Between Sofele, CDJ, Yarnway, and Briggs, somebody will step up, and I trust Coach Gould. I think the defense will continue to be a strength for the team as well.

norcalnick: I really do believe that Giorgio Tavecchio will be an above average college kicker next year.  Dude was powerfully unlucky last year, and I think he has the mental makeup to not let that bad luck keep him down.  He showed a much improved leg on both kickoffs and field goals - now it's just a matter of a little more accuracy and a little more luck.  2011 will be the Italian Stallion's year.

Ohio Bear: Giorgio Tavecchio.  We remember the misses, obviously, but his total season wasn't as bad as many might think.  He was 11 of 16 in FG attempts (68.8%)  and was 4 of 6 from 40+ yards.  With another year of maturity and hopefully buoyed by the confidence of how he finished the season (makes from 53 and 47 yards in the season finale vs. Washington), he will break out and be the reliable kicker we need.