SF Chronicle: Special-teams play is concern for Tedford

Bruce Adams, Chronicle Staff Writer

Sunday, October 2, 2005

Coach Jeff Tedford, coming off another game that included breakdowns on special teams, said he is particularly concerned about Cal's coverage on kickoffs and punts.  "We're really going to evaluate those units," he said, noting coaches could be making some personnel changes.  Arizona's Syndric Steptoe had four punt returns for a total of 44 yards, the longest for 34 yards. He also returned four kickoffs for 73 yards, the longest for 30. He also returned a punt 85 yards for a touchdown but it was called back because of a holding penalty.  Tedford said he was also concerned about kickoffs. David Lonie put one in the end zone but three others came down short near the 5-yard line. Placekicker Tom Schneider also kicked off once, his coming down a couple yards short of the end zone.  Phantom interference: Cornerback Tim Mixon was called for pass interference in the first half on a play that appeared to be a clean break-up on TV replays.  "I thought that was a very nice play by Timmy," Tedford said.

Mixon also thought he had made a clean play, going over the back of the receiver to knock the ball away. He said he thought the official didn't have the best view.  Tedford, seen talking to an official after the play, was asked if his questions on the call had been answered. "I didn't ask much," he said. "I was giving more comments than asking questions.''  Practice problems: In discussing quarterback Joe Ayoob's inconsistency on deep throws, Tedford said Cal's practice facilities could be part of the problem.  The Bears practice on the turf of Memorial Stadium, with the first-string defense facing the scout team offense on one half of the field and the starting offense facing the scout defense on the other half.  He said Ayoob rarely has the opportunity to throw the ball longer than 45 yards.  "That's something we have to address," he said.  

Injury report: Offensive tackle Andrew Cameron, making his first start after missing two games with a concussion, left early in the game with a knee injury.  And defensive tackle Abu Ma'afala, who blocked Arizona's 50-yard field-goal attempt in the first quarter, left the game with a sprained ankle.  Tedford said X-rays were negative on both injuries.  Defensive leaders: Linebacker Desmond Bishop led the team in tackles with six.  Close behind with five stops were Mixon, end Nu'u Tafisi, corner Daymeion Hughes and end Phillip Mbakogu.  Mixon had one interception and broke up three pass plays. Hughes had two picks and broke up two passes.