Insta-Recap & Rate The Game: Cal v. Sac State Football: Defense, What Defense?
Sacramento State Hornets gained 467 yards on the California defense
Head coach Justin Wilcox avoided going winless in non-conference play, as the California Golden Bears (1-2) defeated the Sacramento State Hornets (1-2), 42-30.
Defensive plays were in short supply Saturday afternoon.
California gave up 467 yards and one turnover to a Football Championship Subdivision team that surrendered six turnovers to Northern Iowa last week.
California’s defense continued to struggle with giving up yards after contact, despite Coach Wilcox’s insistence last week that it was a point of concern for the team.
Sacramento State attacked the Golden Bears’ secondary. The Hornets outgained the Golden Bears 408 to 288 yards in the air.
Junior quarterback Jake Dunniway threw for 370 yards, two touchdowns and one interception, completing 25 of 43 attempts for the Hornets against a “Power Five” defense.
Hornets quarterback Asher O’Hara added another 29 yards passing, going three for 10. He also contributed 49 rushing yards on 12 attempts. He scored two touchdowns on the ground and was Sacramento State’s leading rusher.
Most telling stat for me is the zero sacks. Their QBs had plenty of time to throw and text a friend about it.
My thoughts:
1. The defense is simply below average, and has issues at every level. This is going to end badly.
2. The offense is better, but the fact the O-line couldn't steamroll Sac State late in a game is disconcerting. This only adds to the inconsistency of the offense.
3. Still worried about the kicking game.
4. The league has GOT to do something about the super-long video reviews. It takes way too long and makes the game's unbearably long.
5. A lot of young players were out there.
6. Wilcox never wins pretty, even against lesser opponents.