Daily Cal: Bears Open Aerial Attack as Offense Sparkles in Victory

BY Steven Dunst

His secret is a little bit of infectious humor.  “Nate is like a big ol' clown in the huddle. He never makes it seem like anything's that important," wide receiver DeSean Jackson said. "He's a tough dude, but he jokes around a bit."  The quick reads and improving accuracy are nice, but it was quarterback Nate Longshore's calm and confidence that got the offense moving Saturday.  Relaxed and back home, the No. 22 Cal football team responded with an offensive firestorm, putting up 531 yards of total offense in a 42-17 victory over Minnesota at Memorial Stadium.  After breaking his leg in last season's home opener and struggling to put up points in Knoxville, Tenn., last week, Longshore's unflappable demeanor is not something to be taken for granted.  "Nate's got more confidence than all of us," said wideout Lavelle Hawkins, who caught nine of Longshore's passes for 125 yards. "I never thought for one minute that Nate wouldn't handle his business."  Longshore led the way with a breakthrough performance. In only his third career start-and first complete game-the sophomore threw for 300 yards and four touchdowns, keying in on the Bears' trio of speedy downfield options.

The success of the aerial attack opened up the field for tailbacks Marshawn Lynch and Justin Forsett, who combined for 216 yards on 39 carries.

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