Skip to main content

Cal defense shines in convincing win over San Diego State

Sep 12, 2015

 

Cal’s offense did its usual thing Saturday afternoon against San Diego State, racking up 485 yards and 35 points. But it was the defense that stood out in Call's 35-7 win over the Aztecs, not allowing a single point after the first drive of the game.

It has been well-documented that the defense needed to step up for Cal to return to the postseason for the first time since 2011, and the early signs were positive in a season-opening 73-14 win over Grambling State a week ago in which the defense scored two touchdowns.

Holding an FCS opponent to 14 points in garbage time is one thing; holding a team that is predicted to win its division in the Mountain West to half of that is another.

After allowing the Aztecs to drive 71 yards on eight plays on their opening-possession touchdown, Cal surrendered just 3.7 yards per play the rest of the way and, more importantly, 0 points.

While Cal will face much tougher opponents soon, defensive coordinator Art Kaufman’s group is off to a strong start.