Matt Kawahara
If the linebackers were supposed to be the weak link on defense coming into 2009, it looks like the Cal football team is going to be all right on that side of the ball. Bears coach Jeff Tedford was pleased with the linebackers' play against Maryland on Saturday -- the first real test for a unit that graduated three seniors (the only three starters lost from last year's defense) following the 2008 season.
"They played well," Tedford said. "There's areas where they can improve, with their fits and the discipline and things like that, but they played hard and they ran well." Sophomore Mychal Kendricks led all players with 12 tackles, including one for loss. Most of Kendricks' game experience last year came on the outside, but he moved inside during fall camp and, as he said, "found a home" there. Junior Mike Mohamed recorded nine tackles and a sack against the Terrapins. Devin Bishop and D.J. Holt combined for 13 tackles.
Although the unit returned few career starts this season, Tedford was quick to point out that each had considerable experience in relief of Zack Follett, Anthony Felder and Worrell Williams last season. Furthermore, the new group is getting noticed for its quickness. "I think overall our speed has improved there," Tedford said. "All four guys, I think, can do a nice job of getting to the football."
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