Berkley, CA- Cal defense took center stage behind Cornerback Nohl Williams returned a short kickoff 80 yards for a touchdown that gave Cal a 14-13 lead with 4:32 left in the half. He showed up with few pass break ups and an interception to aid in 31-13 victory.
The Bears shutdown UC Davis Aggies in the second half scoring not even a single point. This was a tale of two halfs.
“In the first half, we had good effort but, boy, our execution was lacking,” Cal coach Justin Wilcox said. “We were not in any kind of rhythm. I didn’t feel great”
Cal’s did have a nice effort from running back Jaydn Ott who scored two touchdowns on 14 carries before limping off the field and not returning to the game.
The Bears were out gained 304-281 total yards by the Aggies, and not really finding an answers on 3rd down only making 2/13 first downs. Wilcox will need to get this answered fast as they enter this new era of ACC football.
Cal quarterback Fernando Mendoza making his first start for the Bears threw for 158 yards with a single touchdown connecting with Nyziah Hunter. Hunter was one of his top targets who had 4 catches for 47 yards.
If Ott is out for an extended point this season Mendoza will be called on to be better then 15/22 from his debut. He did spread the ball around with 7 different Cal ball catchers.
UC Davis playing catch up tried to ride quarterback Miles Hasting who threw 3 interceptions that didn’t help advance the offense. He did throw for 221 yards competing 24/48.
CJ Hutton led the aggies with 7 catches for 68 yards but didn’t find the endzone.
“It’s really a tale of two halves. To be ahead a point at half, we were fortunate. A lot of lessons to learn.,” said Wilcox said, We just have to be that much better next week.”
The Bears will travel to face Auburn for prime-time game at 12:30pm looking to move to 2-0. The Aggies will host Texas A&M-Comm who lost to San Diego St opening.
