Polk Keys Exciting El Cerrito Win, Talks Cal Commitment
Friday was a big day for El Cerrito wide receiver Makai Polk. Following his lunchtime commitment to Cal, the 6-4/215 receiver helped lead his Gauchos squad to an exciting 32-30 win at Acalanes, never leaving the field.
El Cerrito only suited up 25 players for the game, so Polk and many of his teammates had to pull triple duty on offense, defense and special teams.
The talented receiver played a big role in the win, with big plays including an interception at cornerback as well as several crushing hits, a third quarter touchdown and a long fourth down reception to keep a drive alive, going across the defender's body to haul in the ball on the 4th down play.
The game was marred by questionable officiating often going against the road team, drawing the ire of the El Cerrito staff, who at one point were called for four straight unsportsmanlike penalty calls between plays while protesting the penalties.
The Gauchos had several chances to ice the game late, including on a seemingly game-deciding interception but the drive was extended every time by critical 4th down penalty calls that went against the Gauchos.
The game came down to a final game-deciding field goal attempt by Acalanes on the game's last play but the 42-yard kick clanked off the corner of the crossbar and upright to preserve El Cerrito's win.
Following the game, an exhausted Polk talked about what went into his decision to stay local and commit to Cal.
"The overall feeling of family and comfort," said Polk. "I feel like I can make an immediate impact when I get there and my hard work and dedication will drive me to push the team and make sure they're the best."
The Bears have been targeting several bigger receivers to help create mismatches in the passing game and the rangy and athletic Polk is just what the doctor ordered.
Polk's relationship with the staff has been strong since he was offered but of particular note was the role that head coach Justin Wilcox played in the talented receiver's recruitment.
"I have a great relationship with every coach there, especially the head coach," said Polk. "You don't get that out of a lot of colleges -talking to the head coach. But he's a great head coach and he does his job very well."
Polk committed to Cal over Arizona, Tennessee and Oregon State. He became the second receiver and twentieth overall commitment in the class.
