Cal vs UC Davis Preview
One of the major talking points of the press conference was the significant roster turnover Cal has experienced this offseason. With a large number of new players joining the team through the transfer portal and high school recruits, Wilcox was asked if he has a clear sense of what his team will look like when they take the field Saturday vs. UC Davis.
"Ultimately, the test is on Saturdays," Wilcox stated. "I have a lot of confidence in the guys that returned and the new additions. But there’s a process in creating chemistry. We’ve been working hard on that since January, and it’s important to continue building that as we head into the season."
The coach acknowledged that this year's team is unique, noting that it is the most new faces he has ever had to work with. "We’ve done a really good job starting from January and then again in June, working together on and off the field," he said. "Team chemistry is critical, and spending time together outside of the building has been key."
Facing off against UC Davis this Saturday, Wilcox will go head-to-head with Tim Plough, a former colleague. When asked about this matchup, Wilcox expressed respect for Plough's coaching intelligence and the challenge that UC Davis will present.
"Tim Plough is a heck of a coach and a heck of a person," Wilcox said. "Their team will be well-coached in all phases of the game. We have a ton of respect for them, and it’s going to be a hard-fought game. Our team is excited to play and make a strong debut."
DC Peter Sirmon also chimed in about the challenges Plough and the Aggies will bring.
“Coach Plough is a great playcaller, and UC Davis will be well-prepared. They have a talented running back, Lan Larison, and an experienced quarterback. We're expecting a challenge from their offense, and we have a lot of respect for what they bring to the field."
Preview of UC Davis
As UC Davis gears up for the 2024 football season, the Aggies are positioned for a strong campaign under the guidance of new head coach Tim Plough. After Coach Dan Hawkins stepped down, Plough, a former Aggie quarterback and offensive coordinator, returned to the program with a clear vision for the future. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect from UC Davis this season:
The #18 (FCS Ranking) Aggies return 11 starters on offense and 8 on defense for the 2024 season. The team’s lineup features several key players:
· Lan Larison: The Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year and a 1st Team All-Conference selection.
Larison is a dynamic playmaker, having accumulated 2,169 rushing yards, 779 receiving yards, and 29 total touchdowns over his career.
· Zach Kennedy: A 1st Team All-Conference defensive lineman who recorded 28 total tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, and one forced fumble last season.
· Trent Tompkins: A 2nd Team All-Conference all-purpose player recording 333 rushing yards, 430 receiving yards, and 4 touchdowns.
· Rex Connors: A 2nd Team All-Conference defensive back and standout safety accumulating 59 total tackles, 2 tackles for a loss, 1 interception and 1 forced fumble.
Incoming Transfers
The Aggies have bolstered their roster with notable transfers:
· Jace Rodriguez (Stony Brook, OL): Expected to strengthen the offensive line.
· Tyson McWilliams (California, DB): Adds depth and experience to the secondary.
A point of interest for fans and analysts alike has been the quarterback competition. While Wilcox did not reveal who will start, he assured that the team is prepared for various scenarios.
"I feel really good about the quarterback room," Wilcox said. "It’s been very competitive. We will have a starting quarterback, but I’m not going to announce it today. It’s possible that more than one quarterback could see the field in the first half."
As Wilcox enters his eighth season as head coach, expectations remain high. The team’s goal is to return to bowl game contention, and Wilcox spoke about the importance of meeting those standards.
"Our job is to maximize every opportunity we get," Wilcox said. "We need to identify what needs to improve and give our players the best chance to succeed. It’s about performing at critical moments and making those key plays."
When discussing leadership, Wilcox mentioned several players who have stood out during camp. Jaydn Ott was cited as a leader in the locker room on O, while David Reese was highlighted as a key defensive leader.
"David Reese has been a real leader for our group," Wilcox said. "He’s stepped up both by example and vocally."
As the team prepares for their opener, Wilcox remains focused on continuous improvement. "It’s about aiming for perfection, though we know it won’t be perfect. We’ve got to continue to improve each week and each game," he emphasized.
The season opener against UC Davis is set to provide a glimpse into the new-look Cal Bears and their potential for the 2024 season. With a mix of new talent, competitive practices, and high expectations, Cal football is poised for an exciting start to the year.
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