This was a solid team effort and a good win by an emerging Cal Bears football team. This was originally supposed to be their final game of the season. However, the California fires delayed the Stanford game, which will be played on December 1st. Let’s take a look at how our prospects did in this inner-division matchup against the Colorado Buffaloes.
Patrick Laird, RB
Gaining 45 yards on 18 carries left a lot to be desired. It seems inconsistency is a big part of Laird’s game this season. Despite this, Cal appears to be led by its defense and its all-around team effort. And while Laird couldn’t get it done on the ground, he did add a score through the air. Sometimes its all about contributing when you can, and that’s what Laird did against Colorado. Stanford will be a tough matchup next week. Laird will have to be more explosive if they want to get the W. Going into the game fresh off a win will certainly give them a boost though.
Performance Grade: C+
Draft Projection: Undrafted
Jake Curhan, OL
This was an average game at best for Curhan and the rest of the O-line. They allowed 3 sacks and didn’t help much in the run game. The effort will always be there with Curhan, however, the outcome left more to be desired. Despite this, the team still won. Now they can turn their focus to a key rescheduled Stanford game. This O-line is experienced and good enough to dominate as long as they stay focused. They will be key to a win next week.
Performance Grade: C+
Draft Projection: 5th – 6th Round
Vic Wharton III, WR
While he may never have found the end zone, he was key in an otherwise unimpressive offense. Averaging 10 yards per catch on 6 grabs is a tremendous effort. No doubt a big plus coming out of a win. Next week will be a fun one for Wharton. Stanford likes to give up points in bunches and Wharton will seek to take advantage of that. Be on the lookout for a big game.
Performance Grade: B
Draft Projection: 7th Round
Jordan Kunaszyk, LB
This was a defensive effort in this game. Coming out with 3 tackles and 11 assisted tackles is a good stat line for Kunaszyk. He has been a model of consistency all season, and this week was no different. Next week they will need every bit of his consistency to help stop a solid Cardinal offense.
Performance Grade: B
Draft Projection: 6th Round
Camryn Bynum, CB
Despite the stat line being unimpressive (2 tackles, 2 assisted), he played quite well. Bynum was part of a very solid Bears secondary that has been reliable all season long. They kept the opponent in check and didn’t falter, showing effort the entire game. Reliability will be key next week against Stanford. They love to put up points and we would like to see Bynum come up with a big interception in this one.
Performance Grade: B-
Draft Projection: 5th Round
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