Vince Grippi’s Keys to the WSU-Cal Game

What went right

Nothing really, but the one bright note might have been the running and receiving of redshirt freshman Rickey Galvin. The Berkeley, Calif., native ran for 73 yards on 12 carries and also caught three passes for another 22 yards. The 5-foot-8 Galvin split into the slot a few times and caused matchup problems for the California secondary.

What went wrong

The most obvious thing was the lack of intensity from the opening kickoff. The offense never really solved the Cal defense, especially up front. And the Cougar’ defense was run over to the tune of 288 yards. Although the Bears only completed 11 passes, they still finished with 411 yards of total offense.

Turning point

The Cougars won the toss and decided to take the football. The first play was stuffed for no gain, the second went for 1 yard. On third down, Marshall Lobbestael was flushed from the pocket, but not far enough and was called for intentional grounding. Three plays and a punt. The opening possession seemed to set the tone for the entire game.

Difference makers

This goes to the California offensive line. The group, which was missing starter Brian Schwenke, dominated up front and opened holes for Isi Sofele (138 yards), C.J. Anderson (51) and Will Kapp (a 43-yard scoring run) to get going. The Bears averaged 6 yards a carry, and that included a 9-yard sack.