Aaron Rodgers went 29-of-34 and one touchdown in Cal's 23-17 loss to USC on Saturday. (Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images)

Although now-apparently-#9 California lost to #1-USC on Saturday, they managed to gain a nation's respect - the Golden Bears' offensive and defensive units both had outstanding performances; Aaron Rodgers' stature as a college quarterback has rocketed in the eyes of the national media.