Cal Bears 1-0 Overall (0-0 Conference)

This Week’s Score: Cal 52 – Maryland 13

Next Week’s Opponent: Eastern Washington

Sam’s Take:

That was all any Bears fan could ask for out of a season opener. Cal was dominant on both side of the ball against the Terps, and Jahvid Best started his Heisman campaign in style with a big highlight run on national television early in the game (finished with 137 yards, 2 TDs). I really liked what I saw out of Kevin Riley, who seemed completely in control of the offense on his way to 298 yards passing and four touchdowns. It was great to see Marvin Jones flash his playmaking ability, and there should be plenty more of that to come this season as long as he is healthy.

The energy of the defense was exceptional, especially the front seven which sacked Maryland QB Chris Turner six times. If the D continues to play like that, the rest of the Pac-10 will be in trouble. Mychal Kendricks came up big with 12 tackles, and I also came away impressed with Ernest Owusu (two sacks). It was fun to watch Syd’Quan Thompson shut down his side of the field after Maryland went after him early, and I will be curious to see if any other teams dare to challenge him.

Overall, Cal looked spectacular in their redemption game and will now have a warm-up (Eastern Washington) before taking their show on the road to Minnesota.

Dave’s Take:

California did exactly what I expected them to do; exact their revenge in dominate fashion.

Jahvid Best is obviously going to be the national story with 137 yards on 10 carries for two touchdowns (was three carries, 80 yards, two touchdowns), and he deserves it after last year’s disappointing trip to Maryland.

But Kevin Riley’s four touchdown mistake free day and a stellar defensive effort were equally impressive, and through week one the Cal Bears look every bit as good as advertised.

This upcoming week against Eastern Washington will produce similar gaudy numbers all around, and then the real fun begins; @MIN, @ORE, vs. USC.