Names to know

JAHVID BEST Cal running back

Want to see quick? How about fast? Both in the same package? Then watch Best. The 5-foot-10, 193-pound sophomore didn’t start a game last season, but his explosiveness made an impression anyway. With Justin Forsett in the NFL and James Montgomery in Pullman, Best is the offense’s focal point, whether he’s carrying the ball or receiving it. In 10 games last year, Best averaged 7.6 yards a carry and 27 yards on 15 kickoff returns.

MATT MULLENNIX WSU, defensive end

How long has Mullennix been at WSU? When he came out of Liberty High he was recruited by then-head-coach Mike Price. Is that long enough? The 24-year-old may be somewhat undersized at 6-6, 253 pounds, but he has a motor that doesn’t have an off button. It helped him collect 33 tackles last year, in what was supposed to be his senior year. After being granted a sixth year by the NCAA, Mullennix kicked off his final season with five tackles.

ZACK FOLLETT Cal, linebacker

Follett didn’t lead the Bears in tackles last week – fellow linebacker Anthony Felder did, with 12 – but there’s no doubt who is the leader of Cal’s defense. Just follow the ball until the whistle. That’s where you’ll find the senior outside linebacker on most every play. Last year Follett, a second-team All-Pac-10 selection, led the Bears in sacks (5.5 for the second consecutive year) and tackles for loss (12.5). With most teams running away from the 6-1, 238-pound Follett, he still collected 64 tackles in 11 games.