A 4-2-5 defense will allow us to use our strength to exploit their defense. Why? With 6 guys in the box we can run on them. Without big OLB's and with larger and speedier DB's as part of the 5 coverage, we can run on them if we pull our big linemen for matchups. We may be able to pass on them on the outside to our RB's and speedier receivers. There is a reason the absolute worst FBS program in the country (UMass - ranked #133 out of #133 FBS propgrams) averaged 5.1 yards per rush against Auburn, and I think our run game is a little bit better than the UMass run game.
Agreed, this Auburn defense is not very good at all. We should be able to run and as importantly control clock. My expectation is that Spav will call a great game and the lads will execute the plan.
I've been hearing Auburn talking heads saying how they have the better talent for all the positional matchups all week. Can't wait to see what happens the first time a linebacker tries to catch Ott with a weak arm tackles just to be run past/through/over for an extra 5+ yards. Or J Hunter sky one of their DBs for a huge gain. Can't wait.
One of the many reasons I love the Spavital offense vs a pure Air Raid. With the emphasis on running, you have time of possession so that your defense isn’t on the field 75% of the time and totally gassed.
Thank you for the background information on the Auburn defense. This should be one heck of a game. I will not be able to stay glued to my seat at kick off, or during most of the game. Go Bears! Go Ifanse! Go to the game everybody. :-)
"I expect the Auburn defense to come out with a chip on their shoulder after Ott’s confidence about Saturday’s game during his press conference."
Auburn fans have been saying Ott is a TARGET, not just a mere chip on the shoulder. Not sure if the players see it that way, but if they do let us correct them: MOVING TARGET.
OK, yes I know the Auburn podcast and fanbase has their panties all in a bunch about what Ott said.
But you know what? It is about time that a Cal player spoke with confidence and purpose, especially when it comes from one of its leaders. Aren't Cal peeps born with confidence? Aren't Cal peeps wired for success (regardless of what Christ says about athletics)? Aren't Cal peeps gunna bring it when the going gets tuff?
You know it...
What...
You tell the story...
What...
You tell the whole damn world this Bear Territory!
Paaalease AU, get all bunched up with your crusty drawers cuz, "we comin'" (ty, Prime for the quote).
1. Gee, yes, I hope they double and triple team Ott, while the ball goes to Ifanse, Jackson V, and more. "Never interrupt your enemy when he's making a mistake." -Napoleon
2. "Aren't Cal peeps wired for success (regardless of what Christ says about athletics)?"
Yes, few people are more surprised by any success in our money sports than the academic purists who want Cal to be a Nerd factory, not a "football factory." I want both.
That can cut both ways. If they have a chip and we gash them with the run they will fold. If they target Ott, you'll probably see yellow flags flying. Either way its good for us. They will be tough, but I am not scared of them. If we play our game and stay on track, we should be able to beat these guys.
I am not sure if the sense of bravado is a good thing or bad thing. If we can prevent them keying on Ott with a dedicated spy that would be helpful. Maybe doses of Ifanse as a change of pace would work to reduce focus on Ott. At any rate he has to be preserved and stay healthy for the season.
The only time they would use a spy would be on Jackson and that won't happen because he will burn them with a throw because of the numerical advantage.
A 4-2-5 defense will allow us to use our strength to exploit their defense. Why? With 6 guys in the box we can run on them. Without big OLB's and with larger and speedier DB's as part of the 5 coverage, we can run on them if we pull our big linemen for matchups. We may be able to pass on them on the outside to our RB's and speedier receivers. There is a reason the absolute worst FBS program in the country (UMass - ranked #133 out of #133 FBS propgrams) averaged 5.1 yards per rush against Auburn, and I think our run game is a little bit better than the UMass run game.
Agreed, this Auburn defense is not very good at all. We should be able to run and as importantly control clock. My expectation is that Spav will call a great game and the lads will execute the plan.
I've been hearing Auburn talking heads saying how they have the better talent for all the positional matchups all week. Can't wait to see what happens the first time a linebacker tries to catch Ott with a weak arm tackles just to be run past/through/over for an extra 5+ yards. Or J Hunter sky one of their DBs for a huge gain. Can't wait.
Wouldn't it be nice for Ott to pull off Bigelow vs OSU?
Clark Kent.
Not sure if they ever raced, but statswise I think they're both about 4.4 in the 40.
One of the many reasons I love the Spavital offense vs a pure Air Raid. With the emphasis on running, you have time of possession so that your defense isn’t on the field 75% of the time and totally gassed.
FYI, Spav has gone up against this DC several times (IIRC 3x) and has lost each time. Time for a pivot in trend this week?
HELL YEAH!!
I believe he's1-2 all time, losing twice during his HC career and I think winning one as OC at A&M?
Yes, I could be wrong. My recollection is that he had lost all match-ups. Won't matter as this week he will win and change the trend.
Which teams did Spavital represent when he faced this DC?
never mind jus re-read it was Texas State vs. Baylor.
What is the third one you are thinking of?
I believe it was Texas A&M or West Virginia.
Either way, Spav knows his opponent well and should be able to scheme up for this game.
I hope so!
Thank you for the background information on the Auburn defense. This should be one heck of a game. I will not be able to stay glued to my seat at kick off, or during most of the game. Go Bears! Go Ifanse! Go to the game everybody. :-)
This is the most pumped up I’ve been for a Cal game in a long time. If you hear a lot of noise coming from Section T, that will be me.
I am so excited too. After last week's win I decided to go to tomorrow's game and bought tickets
See you there napabear, row 35.
"I expect the Auburn defense to come out with a chip on their shoulder after Ott’s confidence about Saturday’s game during his press conference."
Auburn fans have been saying Ott is a TARGET, not just a mere chip on the shoulder. Not sure if the players see it that way, but if they do let us correct them: MOVING TARGET.
OK, yes I know the Auburn podcast and fanbase has their panties all in a bunch about what Ott said.
But you know what? It is about time that a Cal player spoke with confidence and purpose, especially when it comes from one of its leaders. Aren't Cal peeps born with confidence? Aren't Cal peeps wired for success (regardless of what Christ says about athletics)? Aren't Cal peeps gunna bring it when the going gets tuff?
You know it...
What...
You tell the story...
What...
You tell the whole damn world this Bear Territory!
Paaalease AU, get all bunched up with your crusty drawers cuz, "we comin'" (ty, Prime for the quote).
Two things:
1. Gee, yes, I hope they double and triple team Ott, while the ball goes to Ifanse, Jackson V, and more. "Never interrupt your enemy when he's making a mistake." -Napoleon
2. "Aren't Cal peeps wired for success (regardless of what Christ says about athletics)?"
Yes, few people are more surprised by any success in our money sports than the academic purists who want Cal to be a Nerd factory, not a "football factory." I want both.
Damned right! BEAR TERRITORY!
GO!
BEARS!
That can cut both ways. If they have a chip and we gash them with the run they will fold. If they target Ott, you'll probably see yellow flags flying. Either way its good for us. They will be tough, but I am not scared of them. If we play our game and stay on track, we should be able to beat these guys.
This will be a good test of how deep our guys can dig in and be tough.
If we win, Auburn will save face by claiming it was the "travel factor."
Let's hope Auburn gives their best, because that is the only way we will get better.
Auburn wont save face if they lose to a PAC12 team. :-)
They’re already setting up the story. But, yeah, travel is nothing new. And with a home and home, it works both ways.
I am not sure if the sense of bravado is a good thing or bad thing. If we can prevent them keying on Ott with a dedicated spy that would be helpful. Maybe doses of Ifanse as a change of pace would work to reduce focus on Ott. At any rate he has to be preserved and stay healthy for the season.
The only time they would use a spy would be on Jackson and that won't happen because he will burn them with a throw because of the numerical advantage.
Wow. If true, should be impressive.