California Golden Bears Game Day Grades – Week 4

After a Week 4 bye, the Golden Bears will have a tough matchup against a solid Oregon football team that will push them to their limits. Let’s take a look at how our prospects look going into week 5.

Ross Bowers, QB

There is a good chance Bowers doesn’t even see the field, as he is being phased out in favor of Garbers and McIlwain. It is a tough break for a guy who was named the week 1 starter after starting every game last season. Next week we will be focusing on a new prospect in place of Bowers.

Draft Projection: Undrafted

Jake Curhan, OL

This week’s matchup will definitely be a test for Curhan and this o-line. While the Ducks pass defense should be weak enough to exploit, they only allow an average of 77 yards rushing per game. Against a team like this, Curhan and the rest of that offensive line have to up their run blocking. If that can happen, this could be one of the more likely upsets of week 5.

Draft Projection: 4th-5th Round

Patrick Laird, RB

This will be a very tough matchup for Laird. He has had a less-than-stellar season and doesn’t seem to be a big part of the offense. Couple that with Oregon’s outstanding run defense and you get a recipe for disaster. In order for this team to succeed at home, Laird has to have an increased presence on the field.

Draft Projection: 7th Round

Vic Wharton III, WR

If ever there were a potential breakout game for Wharton, this week’s matchup is it. With Oregon’s stellar run defense, they will take advantage of the passing game. Wharton has had a decent season so far and could boost it with a strong performance. Despite facing a solid CB in Thomas Graham Jr./strong>., Wharton’s experience should push him to success.