Thursday, October 08, 2009

SF Chronicle: Reassuring words, worried actions

Rusty Simmons

Cal coach Jeff Tedford says he doesn't hear or read the criticism. Quarterback Kevin Riley says the offense's confidence hasn't been shaken. And defensive back Chris Conte says all is well in Berkeley.

After being outscored 72-6 in two straight losses and falling from No. 6 to unnoticed in the AP rankings, the Bears are seemingly unified in their message.  But reality showed Thursday at Memorial Stadium, when Cal made a sweeping change from its usual bye-week pattern.

Instead of using the session as a scrimmage for inexperienced players, the Bears had a full-on practice for the veterans. Words say Cal is OK with the way the rest of the season will take shape. Actions say they're making the necessary changes to ensure the current trend won't continue.  "We felt like our 1's needed work and we wanted to utilize the whole week," Tedford said. "We also wanted to get a jump on the game plan."

Link to rest of article.

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