82gradDLSdad said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

---

You have to like his recruiting/portal quotes above though. Doesn't beat around the bush. Wilcox reminds me of every ****ty CEO with his coach speak.

---

Yes, Wilcox comes across like an insurance salesman in his pressers.

DoubtfulBear said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

---

Interesting take when you had no problem chugging the Wilcox Kool-Aid over the years

---

Oski Wow Wow.

Ya' gotta' believe...

until you just can't, anymore.

82gradDLSdad said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

---

You have to like his recruiting/portal quotes above though. Doesn't beat around the bush. Wilcox reminds me of every ****ty CEO with his coach speak.

---

I don't really like that attitude at all.

New coach comes in and blasts the kids that have been busting their butts and then says he's glad they left while bringing in dozens of kids from his old program?

---

But then he goes 9-0. That's the whole goal. It's not pee wee football.

---

Is it? I'd like to think that at Cal winning isn't everything. We give USC, Alabama, Oregon et al., a lot of flack for having that mentality.

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

---

You have to like his recruiting/portal quotes above though. Doesn't beat around the bush. Wilcox reminds me of every ****ty CEO with his coach speak.

---

I don't really like that attitude at all.

New coach comes in and blasts the kids that have been busting their butts and then says he's glad they left while bringing in dozens of kids from his old program?

---

But then he goes 9-0. That's the whole goal. It's not pee wee football.

---

Is it? I'd like to think that at Cal winning isn't everything. We give USC, Alabama, Oregon et al., a lot of flack for having that mentality.

---

If this is the case, and it very well may be, then we are wasting time and money. Building a race car with a catalytic converter.

Strykur said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

---

You have to like his recruiting/portal quotes above though. Doesn't beat around the bush. Wilcox reminds me of every ****ty CEO with his coach speak.

---

I don't really like that attitude at all.

New coach comes in and blasts the kids that have been busting their butts and then says he's glad they left while bringing in dozens of kids from his old program?

---

But then he goes 9-0. That's the whole goal. It's not pee wee football.

---

Is it? I'd like to think that at Cal winning isn't everything. We give USC, Alabama, Oregon et al., a lot of flack for having that mentality.

---

If this is the case, and it very well may be, then we are wasting time and money. Building a race car with a catalytic converter.

---

Talent is not the issue at this point, it's who is driving this whole deal

---

I've always thought and history sort of proves this out, we do pretty well with a solid coach. But I think those coaches somehow 'navigated' the academic landmines. Didn't Mike White and Tedford have some academic question marks? Snyder, I'm not sure of. I still think Snyder would have been our best in my lifetime.

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Strykur said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

---

You have to like his recruiting/portal quotes above though. Doesn't beat around the bush. Wilcox reminds me of every ****ty CEO with his coach speak.

---

I don't really like that attitude at all.

New coach comes in and blasts the kids that have been busting their butts and then says he's glad they left while bringing in dozens of kids from his old program?

---

But then he goes 9-0. That's the whole goal. It's not pee wee football.

---

Is it? I'd like to think that at Cal winning isn't everything. We give USC, Alabama, Oregon et al., a lot of flack for having that mentality.

---

If this is the case, and it very well may be, then we are wasting time and money. Building a race car with a catalytic converter.

---

Talent is not the issue at this point, it's who is driving this whole deal

---

I've always thought and history sort of proves this out, we do pretty well with a solid coach. But I think those coaches somehow 'navigated' the academic landmines. Didn't Mike White and Tedford have some academic question marks? Snyder, I'm not sure of. I still think Snyder would have been our best in my lifetime.

---

I also thought Mooch would be a great college coach, once he dumped Holmoe.

calumnus said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Strykur said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

---

You have to like his recruiting/portal quotes above though. Doesn't beat around the bush. Wilcox reminds me of every ****ty CEO with his coach speak.

---

I don't really like that attitude at all.

New coach comes in and blasts the kids that have been busting their butts and then says he's glad they left while bringing in dozens of kids from his old program?

---

But then he goes 9-0. That's the whole goal. It's not pee wee football.

---

Is it? I'd like to think that at Cal winning isn't everything. We give USC, Alabama, Oregon et al., a lot of flack for having that mentality.

---

If this is the case, and it very well may be, then we are wasting time and money. Building a race car with a catalytic converter.

---

Talent is not the issue at this point, it's who is driving this whole deal

---

I've always thought and history sort of proves this out, we do pretty well with a solid coach. But I think those coaches somehow 'navigated' the academic landmines. Didn't Mike White and Tedford have some academic question marks? Snyder, I'm not sure of. I still think Snyder would have been our best in my lifetime.

---

I also thought Mooch would be a great college coach, once he dumped Holmoe.

---

He was certainly an instant improvement on what came before. If only we'd had him longer.

Chat GPT Answers all.
Kind of reminds me of Zoltran.

Me: What does Cal football need to be a championship program

ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT
For Cal football to become a championship-level program, a combination of long-term strategic improvements and investments in several key areas is needed. Here are the primary factors that could help elevate the program:
1. Talent Acquisition (Recruiting)

• Elite Recruiting: To compete at the highest level, Cal needs to consistently land top-tier recruits, particularly at key positions like quarterback, defensive line, and wide receiver. This requires:
  
  • Improved Recruiting Infrastructure: Enhanced resources for scouting, recruiting, and developing relationships with top high school and junior college prospects.
  • Better National Reach: While Cal historically has a strong local base in Northern California, expanding its recruiting presence in other talent-rich states (Texas, Florida, and the Midwest) could improve the roster.
  • NIL and Support for Athletes: Competing for elite recruits requires supporting the name, image, and likeness (NIL) needs of student-athletes, ensuring that Cal can offer competitive financial opportunities to prospective players.

2. Coaching Stability and Leadership

• Strong Head Coach and Staff: A championship program needs a head coach with a vision for sustained excellence, along with a strong, experienced coaching staff. The ability to develop talent, instill discipline, and lead a team to peak performance is essential.
  
  • Coordinator Stability: Ensuring stability at the coordinator level (both offense and defense) and a focus on developing high-level game plans that capitalize on the team's strengths and exploit opponents' weaknesses is important.
• Player Development: A focus on developing players over the course of their careers through solid coaching, strength and conditioning, and mental toughness is key to building a championship-caliber team.

3. Facilities and Infrastructure

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern, high-quality training facilities, weight rooms, and team amenities can attract top recruits and keep the program competitive. This includes investing in:
  
  • Football Operations Center: A dedicated facility for team meetings, coaching staff, and recruiting events.
  • Stadium Upgrades: While Memorial Stadium is iconic, updating fan experiences and the stadium itself can help boost both recruiting and team morale.
• Medical and Wellness Support: Providing players with cutting-edge sports medicine, rehabilitation, and mental health support is vital to maintain long-term player health and ensure consistent performance.

4. Offensive and Defensive Scheme

• Balanced Offensive Attack: A championship team must be able to move the ball effectively through the air and on the ground. Cal needs to develop an explosive, versatile offense that can consistently score against top defenses. This requires:
  
  • A dynamic and effective passing game.
  • Strong, dependable running backs and a solid offensive line.
• Defensive Dominance: Cal's defense has shown flashes of greatness, but for a championship team, they need to build a dominant, disruptive defense capable of shutting down high-powered offenses. This includes:
  
  • Strong defensive line play.
  • Versatile linebackers who can cover and rush the passer.
  • A secondary that can defend against both the run and pass efficiently.

5. Recruiting and Developing Offensive Line and Defensive Line

• The battle in the trenches is where championships are often decided. For Cal to consistently compete at the highest level, it must develop both a dominant offensive line (to protect the quarterback and establish the run game) and a defensive line that can pressure the quarterback and stop the run.

6. Consistency and Program Culture

• Building a Championship Culture: Consistency in recruiting, coaching, and player development is essential for a championship program. Cal needs to develop a culture where players are expected to perform at their best, on and off the field, and the program consistently competes for conference titles year after year.
• Focus on Fundamentals and Discipline: Championship teams avoid mental errors, self-inflicted penalties, and missed assignments. Building a disciplined program through accountability and a focus on the basics is key.

7. Conference and Scheduling

• Competing in the Pac-12 and National Stage: The Pac-12 has become increasingly competitive, but it remains a conference that is not as dominant in college football as the SEC or Big Ten. Cal needs to be one of the top teams in the Pac-12 consistently to earn a place in the College Football Playoff conversation. This means:
  
  • Winning key in-conference games.
  • Having a well-structured non-conference schedule that challenges the team but also gives them opportunities to build a strong record.

8. Fan Support and Alumni Engagement

• Building a Strong Fan Base: A vibrant fan base that supports the team financially and emotionally is crucial. Cal needs to:
  
  • Fill Memorial Stadium consistently.
  • Engage alumni and local fans to create a game-day atmosphere that is intimidating for opponents.
• Fundraising and Financial Support: Championship programs have large budgets to fund scholarships, assistant coaches, facilities, and resources. Strong financial backing through donors and alumni can help fund these key areas.

9. Player Accountability and Mental Toughness

• Developing Leaders on and off the Field: Championship programs often have players who are not only physically gifted but mentally tough and able to lead by example. This requires creating a program where players are pushed to grow beyond their physical abilities, developing both leadership and mental resilience.

10. Adaptation and Innovation

• Staying Ahead of Trends: College football is constantly evolving, and championship programs are those that can adapt to changes in offensive and defensive schemes, technology, and recruitment methods. Cal must be willing to innovate and adapt quickly to stay competitive.

In summary, for Cal football to rise to championship-level status, it will require significant investment in recruiting, coaching, player development, facilities, and a focus on building a winning culture. Combining these elements with solid leadership and fan engagement will be crucial in developing a sustainable, competitive program capable of contending for titles."


"

• "Stadium Upgrades: While Memorial Stadium is iconic, updating fan experiences and the stadium itself can help boost both recruiting and team morale."
  
  Like being able to read your seat number? LOL
  
  

Rushinbear said:

---

oski003 said:

---

DoubtfulBear said:

---

dimitrig said:

---

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

---

You have to like his recruiting/portal quotes above though. Doesn't beat around the bush. Wilcox reminds me of every ****ty CEO with his coach speak.

---

I don't really like that attitude at all.

New coach comes in and blasts the kids that have been busting their butts and then says he's glad they left while bringing in dozens of kids from his old program?

---

I'm sure Colorado fans don't mind the kids that had gone 1-11 (thanks Wilcox!) were blasted and have been replaced with kids that have gone 8-2 so far with a great chance at winning the conference and millions of viewers every game to boot

---

One of the first things Deion did was sack Colorado's academic admissions standards for football players because they were largely incompatible with winning.

---

did you see the youtube this year of shedeur going to class FOR THE FIRST TIME (he said so himself on the walk up to the building)? He had to have his posse lead him to the building and while looking at the doors to the lecture hall, asked "What do I do? Should I go in?" He was lost. After much disorganization and false starts, they finally got him inside and seated near a girl. He asked her if she could explain things to him. She recognized him, smiled and said of course. Whereupon she translated for him the English that the prof was speaking.

I never imagined that it has come to this. Now, maybe this was all a hoax or an act. I certainly hope so.

---

This opens up an entire can of worms outside of sports I won't go into. NIL, though, has completely uncovered the charade of big time college athletics as being associated with the academics of college. The sooner we break off the schools who want to throw unlimited funds at football and basketball and corral the other schools under some type of scholarly model the better. I think Cal would definitely be better served.

82gradDLSdad said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Chat GPT Answers all.
Kind of reminds me of Zoltran.

Me: What does Cal football need to be a championship program

ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT
For Cal football to become a championship-level program, a combination of long-term strategic improvements and investments in several key areas is needed. Here are the primary factors that could help elevate the program:
1. Talent Acquisition (Recruiting)

• Elite Recruiting: To compete at the highest level, Cal needs to consistently land top-tier recruits, particularly at key positions like quarterback, defensive line, and wide receiver. This requires:
  
  • Improved Recruiting Infrastructure: Enhanced resources for scouting, recruiting, and developing relationships with top high school and junior college prospects.
  • Better National Reach: While Cal historically has a strong local base in Northern California, expanding its recruiting presence in other talent-rich states (Texas, Florida, and the Midwest) could improve the roster.
  • NIL and Support for Athletes: Competing for elite recruits requires supporting the name, image, and likeness (NIL) needs of student-athletes, ensuring that Cal can offer competitive financial opportunities to prospective players.

2. Coaching Stability and Leadership

• Strong Head Coach and Staff: A championship program needs a head coach with a vision for sustained excellence, along with a strong, experienced coaching staff. The ability to develop talent, instill discipline, and lead a team to peak performance is essential.
  
  • Coordinator Stability: Ensuring stability at the coordinator level (both offense and defense) and a focus on developing high-level game plans that capitalize on the team's strengths and exploit opponents' weaknesses is important.
• Player Development: A focus on developing players over the course of their careers through solid coaching, strength and conditioning, and mental toughness is key to building a championship-caliber team.

3. Facilities and Infrastructure

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern, high-quality training facilities, weight rooms, and team amenities can attract top recruits and keep the program competitive. This includes investing in:
  
  • Football Operations Center: A dedicated facility for team meetings, coaching staff, and recruiting events.
  • Stadium Upgrades: While Memorial Stadium is iconic, updating fan experiences and the stadium itself can help boost both recruiting and team morale.
• Medical and Wellness Support: Providing players with cutting-edge sports medicine, rehabilitation, and mental health support is vital to maintain long-term player health and ensure consistent performance.

4. Offensive and Defensive Scheme

• Balanced Offensive Attack: A championship team must be able to move the ball effectively through the air and on the ground. Cal needs to develop an explosive, versatile offense that can consistently score against top defenses. This requires:
  
  • A dynamic and effective passing game.
  • Strong, dependable running backs and a solid offensive line.
• Defensive Dominance: Cal's defense has shown flashes of greatness, but for a championship team, they need to build a dominant, disruptive defense capable of shutting down high-powered offenses. This includes:
  
  • Strong defensive line play.
  • Versatile linebackers who can cover and rush the passer.
  • A secondary that can defend against both the run and pass efficiently.

5. Recruiting and Developing Offensive Line and Defensive Line

• The battle in the trenches is where championships are often decided. For Cal to consistently compete at the highest level, it must develop both a dominant offensive line (to protect the quarterback and establish the run game) and a defensive line that can pressure the quarterback and stop the run.

6. Consistency and Program Culture

• Building a Championship Culture: Consistency in recruiting, coaching, and player development is essential for a championship program. Cal needs to develop a culture where players are expected to perform at their best, on and off the field, and the program consistently competes for conference titles year after year.
• Focus on Fundamentals and Discipline: Championship teams avoid mental errors, self-inflicted penalties, and missed assignments. Building a disciplined program through accountability and a focus on the basics is key.

7. Conference and Scheduling

• Competing in the Pac-12 and National Stage: The Pac-12 has become increasingly competitive, but it remains a conference that is not as dominant in college football as the SEC or Big Ten. Cal needs to be one of the top teams in the Pac-12 consistently to earn a place in the College Football Playoff conversation. This means:
  
  • Winning key in-conference games.
  • Having a well-structured non-conference schedule that challenges the team but also gives them opportunities to build a strong record.

8. Fan Support and Alumni Engagement

• Building a Strong Fan Base: A vibrant fan base that supports the team financially and emotionally is crucial. Cal needs to:
  
  • Fill Memorial Stadium consistently.
  • Engage alumni and local fans to create a game-day atmosphere that is intimidating for opponents.
• Fundraising and Financial Support: Championship programs have large budgets to fund scholarships, assistant coaches, facilities, and resources. Strong financial backing through donors and alumni can help fund these key areas.

9. Player Accountability and Mental Toughness

• Developing Leaders on and off the Field: Championship programs often have players who are not only physically gifted but mentally tough and able to lead by example. This requires creating a program where players are pushed to grow beyond their physical abilities, developing both leadership and mental resilience.

10. Adaptation and Innovation

• Staying Ahead of Trends: College football is constantly evolving, and championship programs are those that can adapt to changes in offensive and defensive schemes, technology, and recruitment methods. Cal must be willing to innovate and adapt quickly to stay competitive.

In summary, for Cal football to rise to championship-level status, it will require significant investment in recruiting, coaching, player development, facilities, and a focus on building a winning culture. Combining these elements with solid leadership and fan engagement will be crucial in developing a sustainable, competitive program capable of contending for titles."

---

AI stuff is often times comical. "Write me an outline of what any company needs to do to be successful. Make it devoid of context of it's current situation".

---

Yes, very fortune cookie-like. But it does mention a few context-specific suggestions, like about our facilities.

Cal88 said:

---

calumnus said:

---

Fire Starkey said:

---

calumnus said:

---

Based on this year, our toughest games next year are SMU in Memorial and Louisville and Virginia Tech on the road.

https://fbschedules.com/2025-california-football-schedule/

---

If Cal finishes 6-6 or worse, Wilcox should be fired regardless of the buyout (hopefully something lower can be negotiated). If we win 7, he likely sticks and he definitely sticks at 8 or 9 wins. Our remaining schedule has all 6 games as very winnable and we are likely favored in 5 of them at minimum. SMU looks tricky but it still falls in the winnable category. That doesn't mean we'll win 5 or all 6 of the remaining games, obvs. We are 2-0 when favored in Vegas, 1-3 when an underdog this season.

Our schedule next year is the weakest in at least 25 years and likely 50 years+. All 12 games are winnable without a single "ehhhhh" on the schedule. 2025 is a MASSIVE opportunity to keep Cal relevant. There will be challenges...i.e. most of the starting defense will have graduated, we'll have to re-work the Oline again, Ott will be gone but the rest of the offensive skill players should/hopefully remain.

The big question is whether Wilcox will be here to see if that opportunity can be taken up. All depends on the remainder of this year's schedule. If we win 5+, hopefully some donor momentum reappears cause we'll need a lot more than the $2.5M raised by Cal Legends recently. That new D and some OL wont be cheap. But the chance remains. If we crater, Wilcox MUST BE fired, as our window to stay with the big boys probably evaporates after '25. If we miss out on the next round of re-alignment, the AD as a whole has to hope that donors step up to endow the non-rev sports like they have in a few spots (Golf, Water polo, etc.) otherwise a bunch will disappear and football is playing in the Mountain West, at best.

Just my random thoughts

---

It is a huge opportunity to bring in a new coach, Ron Rivera at least, and have him make a huge splash coming out of the gate.

---

It's not economically feasible to fire Wilcox before 2026 at the earliest. What is our total NIL budget this year? His buyout dwarfs that. It would be more cost effective to invest whatever extra funds we can get on NIL.

---

We can't wait two more years. After next year, he will need at least a 2 year extension or no one will commit to Cal. A decision will be made next year at the latest. If you meant January '26, my apologies.

bearsandgiants said:

---

Cal88 said:

---

calumnus said:

---

Fire Starkey said:

---

calumnus said:

---

Based on this year, our toughest games next year are SMU in Memorial and Louisville and Virginia Tech on the road.

https://fbschedules.com/2025-california-football-schedule/

---

If Cal finishes 6-6 or worse, Wilcox should be fired regardless of the buyout (hopefully something lower can be negotiated). If we win 7, he likely sticks and he definitely sticks at 8 or 9 wins. Our remaining schedule has all 6 games as very winnable and we are likely favored in 5 of them at minimum. SMU looks tricky but it still falls in the winnable category. That doesn't mean we'll win 5 or all 6 of the remaining games, obvs. We are 2-0 when favored in Vegas, 1-3 when an underdog this season.

Our schedule next year is the weakest in at least 25 years and likely 50 years+. All 12 games are winnable without a single "ehhhhh" on the schedule. 2025 is a MASSIVE opportunity to keep Cal relevant. There will be challenges...i.e. most of the starting defense will have graduated, we'll have to re-work the Oline again, Ott will be gone but the rest of the offensive skill players should/hopefully remain.

The big question is whether Wilcox will be here to see if that opportunity can be taken up. All depends on the remainder of this year's schedule. If we win 5+, hopefully some donor momentum reappears cause we'll need a lot more than the $2.5M raised by Cal Legends recently. That new D and some OL wont be cheap. But the chance remains. If we crater, Wilcox MUST BE fired, as our window to stay with the big boys probably evaporates after '25. If we miss out on the next round of re-alignment, the AD as a whole has to hope that donors step up to endow the non-rev sports like they have in a few spots (Golf, Water polo, etc.) otherwise a bunch will disappear and football is playing in the Mountain West, at best.

Just my random thoughts

---

It is a huge opportunity to bring in a new coach, Ron Rivera at least, and have him make a huge splash coming out of the gate.

---

It's not economically feasible to fire Wilcox before 2026 at the earliest. What is our total NIL budget this year? His buyout dwarfs that. It would be more cost effective to invest whatever extra funds we can get on NIL.

---

We can't wait two more years. After next year, he will need at least a 2 year extension or no one will commit to Cal. A decision will be made next year at the latest. If you meant January '26, my apologies.

---

And who the **** is coming here in this coming cycle if Wilcox is a lame duck?

Strykur said:

---

bearsandgiants said:

---

Cal88 said:

---

calumnus said:

---

Fire Starkey said:

---

calumnus said:

---

Based on this year, our toughest games next year are SMU in Memorial and Louisville and Virginia Tech on the road.

https://fbschedules.com/2025-california-football-schedule/

---

If Cal finishes 6-6 or worse, Wilcox should be fired regardless of the buyout (hopefully something lower can be negotiated). If we win 7, he likely sticks and he definitely sticks at 8 or 9 wins. Our remaining schedule has all 6 games as very winnable and we are likely favored in 5 of them at minimum. SMU looks tricky but it still falls in the winnable category. That doesn't mean we'll win 5 or all 6 of the remaining games, obvs. We are 2-0 when favored in Vegas, 1-3 when an underdog this season.

Our schedule next year is the weakest in at least 25 years and likely 50 years+. All 12 games are winnable without a single "ehhhhh" on the schedule. 2025 is a MASSIVE opportunity to keep Cal relevant. There will be challenges...i.e. most of the starting defense will have graduated, we'll have to re-work the Oline again, Ott will be gone but the rest of the offensive skill players should/hopefully remain.

The big question is whether Wilcox will be here to see if that opportunity can be taken up. All depends on the remainder of this year's schedule. If we win 5+, hopefully some donor momentum reappears cause we'll need a lot more than the $2.5M raised by Cal Legends recently. That new D and some OL wont be cheap. But the chance remains. If we crater, Wilcox MUST BE fired, as our window to stay with the big boys probably evaporates after '25. If we miss out on the next round of re-alignment, the AD as a whole has to hope that donors step up to endow the non-rev sports like they have in a few spots (Golf, Water polo, etc.) otherwise a bunch will disappear and football is playing in the Mountain West, at best.

Just my random thoughts

---

It is a huge opportunity to bring in a new coach, Ron Rivera at least, and have him make a huge splash coming out of the gate.

---

It's not economically feasible to fire Wilcox before 2026 at the earliest. What is our total NIL budget this year? His buyout dwarfs that. It would be more cost effective to invest whatever extra funds we can get on NIL.

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We can't wait two more years. After next year, he will need at least a 2 year extension or no one will commit to Cal. A decision will be made next year at the latest. If you meant January '26, my apologies.

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And who the **** is coming here in this coming cycle if Wilcox is a lame duck?

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I'm still hoping Sagapolutele for one.

bearsandgiants said:

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Cal88 said:

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calumnus said:

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Fire Starkey said:

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calumnus said:

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Based on this year, our toughest games next year are SMU in Memorial and Louisville and Virginia Tech on the road.

https://fbschedules.com/2025-california-football-schedule/

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If Cal finishes 6-6 or worse, Wilcox should be fired regardless of the buyout (hopefully something lower can be negotiated). If we win 7, he likely sticks and he definitely sticks at 8 or 9 wins. Our remaining schedule has all 6 games as very winnable and we are likely favored in 5 of them at minimum. SMU looks tricky but it still falls in the winnable category. That doesn't mean we'll win 5 or all 6 of the remaining games, obvs. We are 2-0 when favored in Vegas, 1-3 when an underdog this season.

Our schedule next year is the weakest in at least 25 years and likely 50 years+. All 12 games are winnable without a single "ehhhhh" on the schedule. 2025 is a MASSIVE opportunity to keep Cal relevant. There will be challenges...i.e. most of the starting defense will have graduated, we'll have to re-work the Oline again, Ott will be gone but the rest of the offensive skill players should/hopefully remain.

The big question is whether Wilcox will be here to see if that opportunity can be taken up. All depends on the remainder of this year's schedule. If we win 5+, hopefully some donor momentum reappears cause we'll need a lot more than the $2.5M raised by Cal Legends recently. That new D and some OL wont be cheap. But the chance remains. If we crater, Wilcox MUST BE fired, as our window to stay with the big boys probably evaporates after '25. If we miss out on the next round of re-alignment, the AD as a whole has to hope that donors step up to endow the non-rev sports like they have in a few spots (Golf, Water polo, etc.) otherwise a bunch will disappear and football is playing in the Mountain West, at best.

Just my random thoughts

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It is a huge opportunity to bring in a new coach, Ron Rivera at least, and have him make a huge splash coming out of the gate.

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It's not economically feasible to fire Wilcox before 2026 at the earliest. What is our total NIL budget this year? His buyout dwarfs that. It would be more cost effective to invest whatever extra funds we can get on NIL.

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We can't wait two more years. After next year, he will need at least a 2 year extension or no one will commit to Cal. A decision will be made next year at the latest. If you meant January '26, my apologies.

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He may be willing to negotiate his buyout over time or something. TBH- his is a small payout compared to, say, MIke Norvell.

82gradDLSdad said:

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I just got a fortune cookie that said you will win if you score more points than your opponent.

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Don't forget sincerity.

Make a typical Justin Wilcox post game press statement following another close loss

ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Sure, here's a sample of what a post-game press conference statement might sound like from Justin Wilcox after another close loss:

Justin Wilcox Post-Game Press Conference (following a close loss)
"Well, tough loss today. I thought our guys played hard. We competed all the way through, but in the end, we came up short. There were moments in the game where we had chances to make plays, and we didn't capitalize on them. I'm proud of the effort, but we have to clean up some mistakes, especially in critical situations.
We had a couple of turnovers that really hurt us, and we need to be better on third downs offensively and defensively. It's a game of inches, and we didn't make the plays when we needed to. Whether it's a missed tackle, a dropped pass, or a misread, those small things add up, and they did today.
We have a resilient group, and they're disappointed, but we're going to keep working. This season isn't over. We've got a lot of football left to play, and our focus is on getting better every day, every week. We've got to keep pushing and learning from these tough losses. We'll look at the film, identify what we can improve on, and get ready for next week.
I've got a lot of respect for how hard our guys fight, and I know they're going to keep battling. We'll be back at it tomorrow."


Nailed it.

Bowlesman80 said:

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Make a typical Justin Wilcox post game press statement following another close loss

ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Sure, here's a sample of what a post-game press conference statement might sound like from Justin Wilcox after another close loss:

Justin Wilcox Post-Game Press Conference (following a close loss)
"Well, tough loss today. I thought our guys played hard. We competed all the way through, but in the end, we came up short. There were moments in the game where we had chances to make plays, and we didn't capitalize on them. I'm proud of the effort, but we have to clean up some mistakes, especially in critical situations.
We had a couple of turnovers that really hurt us, and we need to be better on third downs offensively and defensively. It's a game of inches, and we didn't make the plays when we needed to. Whether it's a missed tackle, a dropped pass, or a misread, those small things add up, and they did today.
We have a resilient group, and they're disappointed, but we're going to keep working. This season isn't over. We've got a lot of football left to play, and our focus is on getting better every day, every week. We've got to keep pushing and learning from these tough losses. We'll look at the film, identify what we can improve on, and get ready for next week.
I've got a lot of respect for how hard our guys fight, and I know they're going to keep battling. We'll be back at it tomorrow."


Nailed it.

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Why do you need AI?
Anyone on this site could write that.

Alkiadt said:

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Bowlesman80 said:

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Make a typical Justin Wilcox post game press statement following another close loss

ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Sure, here's a sample of what a post-game press conference statement might sound like from Justin Wilcox after another close loss:

Justin Wilcox Post-Game Press Conference (following a close loss)
"Well, tough loss today. I thought our guys played hard. We competed all the way through, but in the end, we came up short. There were moments in the game where we had chances to make plays, and we didn't capitalize on them. I'm proud of the effort, but we have to clean up some mistakes, especially in critical situations.
We had a couple of turnovers that really hurt us, and we need to be better on third downs offensively and defensively. It's a game of inches, and we didn't make the plays when we needed to. Whether it's a missed tackle, a dropped pass, or a misread, those small things add up, and they did today.
We have a resilient group, and they're disappointed, but we're going to keep working. This season isn't over. We've got a lot of football left to play, and our focus is on getting better every day, every week. We've got to keep pushing and learning from these tough losses. We'll look at the film, identify what we can improve on, and get ready for next week.
I've got a lot of respect for how hard our guys fight, and I know they're going to keep battling. We'll be back at it tomorrow."


Nailed it.

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Why do you need AI?
Anyone on this site could write that.

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Yep. Just validates what we all thought. The talking points are totally predictable.

Alkiadt said:

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Bowlesman80 said:

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Make a typical Justin Wilcox post game press statement following another close loss

ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Sure, here's a sample of what a post-game press conference statement might sound like from Justin Wilcox after another close loss:

Justin Wilcox Post-Game Press Conference (following a close loss)
"Well, tough loss today. I thought our guys played hard. We competed all the way through, but in the end, we came up short. There were moments in the game where we had chances to make plays, and we didn't capitalize on them. I'm proud of the effort, but we have to clean up some mistakes, especially in critical situations.
We had a couple of turnovers that really hurt us, and we need to be better on third downs offensively and defensively. It's a game of inches, and we didn't make the plays when we needed to. Whether it's a missed tackle, a dropped pass, or a misread, those small things add up, and they did today.
We have a resilient group, and they're disappointed, but we're going to keep working. This season isn't over. We've got a lot of football left to play, and our focus is on getting better every day, every week. We've got to keep pushing and learning from these tough losses. We'll look at the film, identify what we can improve on, and get ready for next week.
I've got a lot of respect for how hard our guys fight, and I know they're going to keep battling. We'll be back at it tomorrow."


Nailed it.

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Why do you need AI?
Anyone on this site could write that.

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I feel like we should be able to use AI to call plays so Bloesh can go back to coaching the line. AI may be able to do a better job with the line, too, tbh. Certainly better than NO DEDICATED LINE COACH!

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Make a typical Justin Wilcox post game press statement following another close loss

ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Sure, here's a sample of what a post-game press conference statement might sound like from Justin Wilcox after another close loss:

Justin Wilcox Post-Game Press Conference (following a close loss)
"Well, tough loss today. I thought our guys played hard. We competed all the way through, but in the end, we came up short. There were moments in the game where we had chances to make plays, and we didn't capitalize on them. I'm proud of the effort, but we have to clean up some mistakes, especially in critical situations.
We had a couple of turnovers that really hurt us, and we need to be better on third downs offensively and defensively. It's a game of inches, and we didn't make the plays when we needed to. Whether it's a missed tackle, a dropped pass, or a misread, those small things add up, and they did today.
We have a resilient group, and they're disappointed, but we're going to keep working. This season isn't over. We've got a lot of football left to play, and our focus is on getting better every day, every week. We've got to keep pushing and learning from these tough losses. We'll look at the film, identify what we can improve on, and get ready for next week.
I've got a lot of respect for how hard our guys fight, and I know they're going to keep battling. We'll be back at it tomorrow."


Nailed it.

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Currently, AI scans all the data on the interwebs as a base for it's answers. This is why your AI post game statement looks exactly like what Wilcox would say. Wilcox is so 'in the box' it's scary.

82gradDLSdad said:

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Bowlesman80 said:

---

Make a typical Justin Wilcox post game press statement following another close loss

ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Sure, here's a sample of what a post-game press conference statement might sound like from Justin Wilcox after another close loss:

Justin Wilcox Post-Game Press Conference (following a close loss)
"Well, tough loss today. I thought our guys played hard. We competed all the way through, but in the end, we came up short. There were moments in the game where we had chances to make plays, and we didn't capitalize on them. I'm proud of the effort, but we have to clean up some mistakes, especially in critical situations.
We had a couple of turnovers that really hurt us, and we need to be better on third downs offensively and defensively. It's a game of inches, and we didn't make the plays when we needed to. Whether it's a missed tackle, a dropped pass, or a misread, those small things add up, and they did today.
We have a resilient group, and they're disappointed, but we're going to keep working. This season isn't over. We've got a lot of football left to play, and our focus is on getting better every day, every week. We've got to keep pushing and learning from these tough losses. We'll look at the film, identify what we can improve on, and get ready for next week.
I've got a lot of respect for how hard our guys fight, and I know they're going to keep battling. We'll be back at it tomorrow."


Nailed it.

---

Currently, AI scans all the data on the interwebs as a base for it's answers. This is why your AI post game statement looks exactly like what Wilcox would say. Wilcox is so 'in the box' it's scary.

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Yep, stays on schedule. Kinda' like a broken clock is right two times a day.

calumnus said:

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82gradDLSdad said:

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Alkiadt said:

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bearsandgiants said:

---

Alkiadt said:

---

Bowlesman80 said:

---

Make a typical Justin Wilcox post game press statement following another close loss

ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Sure, here's a sample of what a post-game press conference statement might sound like from Justin Wilcox after another close loss:

Justin Wilcox Post-Game Press Conference (following a close loss)
"Well, tough loss today. I thought our guys played hard. We competed all the way through, but in the end, we came up short. There were moments in the game where we had chances to make plays, and we didn't capitalize on them. I'm proud of the effort, but we have to clean up some mistakes, especially in critical situations.
We had a couple of turnovers that really hurt us, and we need to be better on third downs offensively and defensively. It's a game of inches, and we didn't make the plays when we needed to. Whether it's a missed tackle, a dropped pass, or a misread, those small things add up, and they did today.
We have a resilient group, and they're disappointed, but we're going to keep working. This season isn't over. We've got a lot of football left to play, and our focus is on getting better every day, every week. We've got to keep pushing and learning from these tough losses. We'll look at the film, identify what we can improve on, and get ready for next week.
I've got a lot of respect for how hard our guys fight, and I know they're going to keep battling. We'll be back at it tomorrow."


Nailed it.

---

Why do you need AI?
Anyone on this site could write that.

---

I feel like we should be able to use AI to call plays so Bloesh can go back to coaching the line. AI may be able to do a better job with the line, too, tbh. Certainly better than NO DEDICATED LINE COACH!

---

Many schools have OC/OL coaches.
In fact, even Tedford did it with Michalczik at Cal.

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But it was Tedford's offense. That's a huge difference.

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Exactly. It is completely different when the HC is from the offensive side and is effectively the OC and play caller.

Especially when there were limits on the number of coaches, an HC that is effectively the OC like Tedford can give Micalzik the OC title while focusing on the OL and hire more defensive coaches or a dedicated special teams coach, for example.

At North Texas, Bloesch was OC and OL coach for one year, with two senior more experienced offensive coaches as HC and "Co-OC" overseeing him.

Wilcox has put Bloesch out on an island and spread him too thin as OC and OL coach, two positions that are full time jobs, his first time as the sole OC and the first time at a P4 level.

Meanwhile, Wilcox, himself a former DC, has in his entire 8 year tenure, allocated the majority of his budget on defensive coaching positions and salary, with entirely predictable results. It is just bad management.

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Fun Fact: Wilcox was a high school QB and was in the QB rotation at Oregon, but he got tired of sitting on the bench and switched to defense.

82gradDLSdad said:

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dimitrig said:

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82gradDLSdad said:

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dimitrig said:

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82gradDLSdad said:

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Bowlesman80 said:

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Notice Cignetti negotiated his contract extension before the tOSU game?

I have a sinking feeling that he might end up improving Indiana, but leaving them middling with a big buyout on his contract. Indiana AD would have been smarter to wait-and-see, at least after the tOSU game.

Watch him hit the recruiting glass ceiling when his grades and graduation rates plummet. Indiana has academic standards similar to Cal. I am pretty sure his "aces" brought over from JMU may not all meet those standards for graduating from IU.

I am waiting before I drink the Cignetti Kool-Aid.

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You have to like his recruiting/portal quotes above though. Doesn't beat around the bush. Wilcox reminds me of every ****ty CEO with his coach speak.

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I don't really like that attitude at all.

New coach comes in and blasts the kids that have been busting their butts and then says he's glad they left while bringing in dozens of kids from his old program?

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But then he goes 9-0. That's the whole goal. It's not pee wee football.

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Is it? I'd like to think that at Cal winning isn't everything. We give USC, Alabama, Oregon et al., a lot of flack for having that mentality.

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If this is the case, and it very well may be, then we are wasting time and money. Building a race car with a catalytic converter.

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Michigan reportedly just flipped a QB recruit from LSU to Michigan because donors kicked in $3 million a year in NIL. Even Colorado is getting donor money from somewhere; they flipped a QB from USC to CU, and you can't outbid USC with nickels and dimes.