Ashtyn Davis Will Miss Bowl Game

Safety Ashtyn Davis, one of the leaders of the Cal defense and a second team All-Pac-12 performer, will not play in the Redbox Bowl against Illinois Dec. 30 at Levi’s Stadium.

After the Bears’ first pre-bowl practice Friday afternoon, head coach Justin Wilcox disclosed that Davis, a senior, recently underwent “a procedure” that would keep him of the game.

“It was a minor procedure but it was something he needed to have done,” Wilcox said. “A guy like that is such a competitor and loves the team, it’s really difficult. It is something small but it had to happen. I am not sure it was avoidable.”

Wilcox was unequivocal in his belief that Davis really wants to play in the game. Some notable collegiate players in recent years have passed up their team’s bowl games in order to avoid injury that would hurt their prospects as pros. Wilcox said he knew of no current Bears who intend to exercise that option. 

The most obvious candidate is All-American linebacker Evan Weaver, but he has said publicly he will play on the 30th.

The other Bears who have been on the shelf recently. Including wide receiver Kekoa Crawford and defensive back Jaylinn Hawkins, are expected to be healthy enough to play. “We anticipate having them back,” he said. 

Wilcoix has a lot on his plate these days, bowl game preparation, recruiting (early signing period starts Wednesday) and hiring a new offensive coordinator as Beau Baldwin departs to become head coach at Cai Poly. 

Wilcox said there is no shortage of candidates. “There are a lot of good football coaches out there, a lot of interest in the job,” he said. “That’s how it goes. I am probably going to have to change my phone number, but that’s a good thing. People are interested.”

Wilcox declined to be specific about what traits he wants in his new OC.

“There are certain criteria we are looking for,” he said, “We will find somebody who fits our program who fits our players well, treats them well and fits in with our staff.

“I won’t talk about the hiring process publicly. I appreciate the interest. I know it matters to a lot of folks. Part of my job is being prepared for moments like this. They are dynamic, things change. We will get somebody very good who will fit in well, be a great coach and a great person.”

The players had not been on the field since the UCLA game Nov. 30. Wilcox said the layoff showed. “They looked like they have been off for a couple of weeks,” Wilcox said. “Their energy was good. We just haven’t been out here running routes, pushing the sled or striking people. There is that process to get back into it. But it will come quickly.”

O-line antics: The offensive linemen, who have a history of bizarre behavior as a group (remember they all showed up for fall camp wearing coveralls) are at it again. Each man’s hair color on Friday was not the one he was born with. 

“I bought like a 12 dollar kit at Safeway,” said Valentino Daltoso. “It is a little orange today but I am going to do it one more time, so it will be a little more blonde.”

When asked why the O-line pulls such stunts, he said. “It’s kind of funny,” he said. “I think it more just camaraderie.

Related:

Redbox Press Conference: Wilcox Praises Departing Baldwin