Cal needs to improve to challenge Buckeyes

Although California got its first win with a 50-31 victory over Southern Utah on Sept. 8, the Golden Bears will have to play significantly better than they have in their first two games to have a chance in either of their next two games, against Ohio State and USC, both of which are on the road. Although Cal ended up scoring 50 points and winning comfortably, the Bears led by just 20-17 entering the fourth quarter against an FCS team that had lost to Utah State 34-3 the previous week.

The numerous mistakes — both in terms of penalties and missed assignments — indicated a lack of discipline that is troubling. The Bears were vastly superior in terms of talent, which was reflected by the fact that Cal outgained the Thunderbirds 353-83 in the first half. Nonetheless, Cal led just 20-10 at halftime. Two Cal turnovers and 10 first-half penalties kept…

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