Cal Players to Watch against Washington

Jared Goff- Quarterback

Oct 19, 2013; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Jared Goff (16) prepares to throw the ball against the Oregon State Beavers during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

It was announced just three hours ago that the quarterback battle this week (just like the last time) has led the staff to pick Jared Goff over Zach Kline. I am delighted, as I think he makes Cal a better team and gives the Cal Bears a better shot to win the game. He will be, just like he has been the last few weeks, tasked with dealing with a very good pass defense. He will need to minimize the mistakes in order to give Cal a chance.

Cal’s quarterback is young, but very talented. If he can give this team the kind of performance he has proven to be capable of (300 plus yards, ~3 touchdowns and less than 3 turnovers) Cal has a chance. Either way, the key is that Goff cannot be taken out of the game this weekend. Even if he throws a lot picks and looks horrible, he must play the entire game. He cannot get lifted for Kline again. He must be given the opportunity to play a full game against a top-end team. He didn’t get through the Oregon or UCLA games. If he’s taken out tomorrow, he will be devoid of confidence going forward. He can’t be babied, he must be given the chance to take his lumps.