Golden Bears Work Out in Full Pads Once Again
“[Over this first week of camp], we’ve learned that we have a great group
of guys,” Cal head coach Jeff Tedford said. “Guys are working hard and
taking pride in doing things right. They have come together and build
great chemistry.
“It’s been nice to see some of the young guys playing well. The two new
tight ends, Spencer [Ladner] and Anthony [Miller], have really impressed
us. The young receivers have done a nice job; and [Bryant] Nnabuife and
the young defensive linemen have really done well also. Mychal Kendricks
has really stood out. It’s a great group of young guys. Those guys are
really doing a good job. Not only are they good athlete and hard workers,
but they’re great kids as well.”
Once again, the defense looked impressive, providing the majority of the
big plays. Nnabuife tallied an interception and a pass break-up, as well
as a sack on a blitz; freshman Trevor Guyton forced a fumble; and junior
Tyson Alualu and sophomore Michael Mohamed both caused trouble in the
backfield. However, Tedford was quick to point out that the defense being
ahead at this point of camp is to be expected.
“[The offense usually catches up to the defense] when you stop all of the
installation,” Tedford said. “When you put new plays in every practice,
everything is learning. Then when you start being able to get repetitions
with them, we get more efficient.”
Sophomore Jahvid Best provided multiple highlights once again out of the
backfield, including gaining extra yardage via the stiff arm on one play.
Redshirt freshman Brock Mansion connected with Marvin Jones on a crossing
pattern and true freshmen Beau Sweeney and Jarrett Sparks hooked up for a
touchdown in a goal-line situation.
With the defense performing well and Tedford complimenting the play of the
young defensive linemen, first-year defensive line coach Tosh Lupoi has
been excited to be working with the talented young group.
“It feels great,” said Lupoi. “I feel there is a definite hunger here on
the defensive line. The guys are really inspired to get better. They are
all feeding off each other and it’s been real special to be a part of this
group.
“We put a major focus on lowering our pad level and striking for pad
control while at the same time, striving to be a very balanced defensive
line. We want to stop the run and generate some pass rushes.”
Cal has another double-session on Monday, working out in shells in the
morning and returning to full pads again in the afternoon.