Arizona (1-2, 0-0) at No. 12 Cal (4-0, 1-0)
When: 4 p.m.
Where: Memorial Stadium, Berkeley
TV: TBS
Radio: KGO AM 810.
Who has the edge?
Cal offense vs. Arizona defense - The Bears' running attack keeps churning along at 275 yards per game and will receive a boost with the return of tailback Marshawn Lynch. Even if Lynch's carries are limited, Justin Forsett is coming off a 235-yard effort against New Mexico State. Arizona's rushing defense is ranked 100th in the country. Edge: Cal.
Cal defense vs. Arizona offense - Wildcats quarterback Richard Kovalcheck is in his second year of coach Mike Stoops' system that relies on the run to set up long passing plays. Arizona is averaging 275 yards through the air and 101 yards on the ground. The Bears' defense has given up 13 points a game and ranks 28th in the country in yards allowed. Edge: Cal.
Special teams - Cal has returned two punts for touchdowns. Sophomore defensive back Thomas DeCoud blocked a field goal last week against New Mexico State. Arizona punter Danny Baugher is averaging 51.8 yards a kick and return specialist/wide receiver Syndric Steptoe has averaged 5.4 yards on punt return duties. Edge: Cal.
Players to watch
Cal - Lynch. Coach Jeff Tedford said Lynch will play, it's just a matter of how much. A broken left pinky has sidelined the tailback for 10 quarters.
Arizona - Kovalcheck. The sophomore has thrown for 793 yards and seven touchdowns but has also been intercepted four times.
Quote
• "I know that we all look for perfect games, but I haven't been around one yet. There are going to be times when things happen and it's how we bounce back from it."
- Tedford on if his team has room to improve.
No comments:
Post a Comment