California

What You Need To Know

The Good – The running game is back in full force with both the top two runners back. Jahvid Best will be one of the top RBs in the country, and No. 2 RB Shane Vereen will be a great backup option in Pac-10 leagues.

The Bad – Despite playing “musical QBs” last fall, the Cal offense suffered from inconsistent and poor QB play. Kevin Riley started for a large chunk of 2008, but don’t expect him to be an option in 120 leagues.

The Ugly – With the lack-luster play at QB, its hard to see the WRs living up to the hype that many have for them in 2009. Unless you’re in a Pac-10 league, stay away from Cal WRs.

Best Fantasy Prospect(s)

RB Jahvid Best will be one of the top RBs in the country this year. If he can avoid missing time due to injury he will easy be a top 3 fantasy RB for 2009.

RB Shane Vereen is the second best fantasy option for Cal. Its hard to believe that Best’s backup is the next best fantasy option, but he is the only other proven option that returns. Take The Dawgfathers advice and avoid QB Kevin Riley.

Sleeper Prospect

WR Marvin Jones is the only sleeper that can be suggested before the draft, BUT only in Pac-10 leagues. Proceed with caution when it comes to drafting Cal WRs. Best route is to wait and see if anyone makes any noise once the season rolls around.

Biggest Question Heading into August

Can you believe the number one question will involve Jahvid Best, and it won’t be about injuries? The worry is that backup RB Shane Vereen is making himself too valuable to keep on the sidelines. Will the coaches get cute and let Vereen cut into some of Best’s carries? We’ll have to wait to see.

Spring Game Hero

WR Alex Lagemann was the best out of a poor offense, pulling in 5 catches for 73 yards and 1 TD.

Injury Report

RB Best missed spring practice to rest his surgically restored elbow and foot. No major worries need to be taken from these minor injuries, but Best has not been able to make it through an entire season without missing time due to injury. It makes you question if he can make it through the entire 2009 year without getting hurt.

WR Michael Calvin missed this spring with an unspecified knee injury. No word on how serious the injury is, but Calvin will still be one of the best options for California WRs.

The other top prospect for WRs in 2009 is Marvin Jones who rolled an ankle in the spring. The injury is not serious and it will not affect his fall performance.

Spring Recaps - Team Index