Chris McCain Dismissed from Cal Football Team

Cal media relations released the following brief statement shortly after 6pm Sunday:

Junior linebacker Chris McCain has been dismissed from the Cal football team due to conduct detrimental to the team, head coach Sonny Dykes announced Sunday.

Coach Sonny Dykes to make no comment on McCain situation until after Monday practice. One more obstacle for struggling @CalFootball team.

— Jeff Faraudo (@JeffFaraudo) September 30, 2013

Coaches and players are not available to the media on Sundays, so there's nothing more in terms of information on McCain's dismissal

— Hunter Hewitt (@HunterHewitt) September 30, 2013

The talented junior defender had overcome injuries and a suspension earlier this summer - reportedly to work on academics - to reclaim a starting spot on the defensive line.  His dismissal leaves an already thin Cal defense even thinner, particularly considering the number of injured defensive starters:

- Avery Sebastian (season-ending Achilles tear)

- Brennan Scarlett (has not played yet this year due to a slow-to-heal hand injury dating back to last season)

- Mustafa Jalil (has not played yet this year due to a knee injury suffered last season)

- Nick Forbes (gradually working his way back from a lower back injury)

- Kam Jackson (hurt in the 1st quarter of the Oregon game, status uncertain until after Monday practice)

DC Andy Buh will need to look deep down the DE depth chart to fill the void left by McCain's departure:  Kyle Kragen (who had his first career sack against Oregon yesterday), Puka Lopa, and Todd Barr should all see increased playing time going forward.  This may also mean that Dan Camporeale will continue to log significant minutes at rush end.

Per a report by Hunter Hewitt:

According to Cal officials, his dismissal was not related to academics, nor was it a legal issue.

The 6-foot-6, 250-pound defensive end played in three games this season, starting two. He recorded 11 tackles, a forced fumble and a quarterback hurry.

Entering the season, McCain had played in 21 games with 16 starts. He was an honorable mention All-Pac-12 selection last season and was the Bears’ active leader in career sacks and tackles for loss.