‘Not a Surprise’- What Cal coach Justin Wilcox said about Oregon State ahead of Week 9 matchup with Beavers

As the California Golden Bears prepare to face the Oregon State Beavers in their Week 9 matchup, head coach Justin Wilcox took the time to address the media, sharing insights about his team’s readiness and the challenges posed by their opponents. With injuries and performance issues lingering, his comments reflect a blend of strategy, optimism, and accountability.

In his press conference, Wilcox began by discussing the injury report, noting the status of key players. T.J. Session is doubtful for the game, and both Matthew Littlejohn and Sioape Vatikani are day-to-day, having missed practice. Ryan McCulloch is also doubtful, while Corey Dyches’ status will be assessed mid-week. However, there is some positive news, as Kadarius Calloway has been cleared to play, and players like Tobias Merriweather and Jaydn Ott are making progress in practice. Wilcox emphasized the importance of these players stepping up in crucial moments, reflecting the “next man up” mentality that is vital in college football.

Turning his attention to the Beavers, Wilcox expressed respect for Oregon State’s quarterback, Gevani McCoy. Noting that this will be the third time Cal faces a quarterback they previously encountered, Wilcox acknowledged McCoy’s talent. He highlighted McCoy’s performance from last season, noting his accuracy and composure under pressure. Wilcox pointed out that McCoy presents a dual threat—he is not only adept at passing but also capable of scrambling effectively. This versatility, combined with a strong offensive scheme led by the Beavers’ coordinator, poses a significant challenge for Cal’s defense.

Wilcox’s analysis extended to Oregon State’s offensive approach, which emphasizes a strong ground game. He noted their impressive average of nearly 240 rushing yards per game, underscoring their ability to control the clock and dictate the pace of play. This well-rounded offensive strategy requires a comprehensive defensive game plan from Cal to counteract both the run and pass effectively.

The conversation then shifted to Cal’s recent struggles, particularly in the fourth quarter of games. Wilcox acknowledged the team’s difficulties in closing out matches, attributing it to a mix of execution issues and critical moments where the team faltered. He noted that while the players showed good conditioning and effort, the lack of execution during crucial times has hindered their performance. Wilcox underscored the need for the team to cultivate a “fourth-quarter mentality” to secure victories, expressing confidence that they possess the capability to achieve this but must translate it into results on game day.

When asked whether the issues stem more from the offense or defense, Wilcox indicated that it’s a collective problem involving all units. He stressed that every group, whether it be offense, defense, or special teams, has had moments where they could have improved to support the overall effort. He recalled instances in their recent games where missed opportunities in critical situations led to disappointing outcomes.

In discussing the impact of injuries on the team’s performance, Wilcox emphasized the importance of players who step up when called upon. He reiterated the philosophy that injuries are a part of the game, and it is crucial for the remaining players to elevate their game to compensate. This mentality fosters resilience within the team and encourages everyone to contribute at a higher level.

The topic of personnel decisions arose, particularly regarding who would fill in for T.J. Session if he cannot play. Wilcox mentioned Frederick Williams III and Braden Miller as potential options for right tackle. Both players have shown promise in practice, and Wilcox expressed optimism about their ability to perform well under the circumstances. He highlighted Williams’ size and athleticism, noting that he has room for growth, while Miller has also been progressing nicely.

The conversation shifted to tight end Jack Endries, a preferred walk-on who has been pivotal in Cal’s offense. Wilcox praised Endries for his dedication and hard work, noting that he played more snaps than any other tight end in the country last season as a freshman. Wilcox acknowledged the need to balance Endries’ playing time to avoid wearing him out, as his contributions are critical to the team’s success. He commended Endries for maximizing his potential and being a competitive player who embodies the spirit of the team.

When discussing the challenge of preparing for McCoy, Wilcox reflected on the significance of last year’s matchup against Idaho, which provides a baseline for understanding McCoy’s abilities. He acknowledged that while college football evolves quickly, past performances can still offer valuable insights into a player’s capabilities. Wilcox praised McCoy’s accuracy and his ability to evade pressure, which complicates defensive schemes aimed at containing him. This understanding informs Cal’s approach as they prepare for the Beavers’ offensive strategies.

As Cal navigates a non-conference game amid their conference schedule, Wilcox expressed eagerness to shift focus and play the next game. He acknowledged the disappointment from recent performances and the urgency to translate their hard work into results. Wilcox emphasized that the team remains motivated and believes in their potential to achieve success moving forward.

Addressing the situation with the kicking game, Wilcox acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding their kicker’s status, describing it as a day-to-day evaluation. He addressed the disappointment of kicker Derek Morris, who faced challenges in recent games. Wilcox emphasized the need for collective support from all units to aid the kicker’s performance, reinforcing the idea that success is a team effort. He expressed confidence in Morris’ ability to bounce back and contribute positively to the team.

The discussion highlighted Wilcox’s introspective approach to coaching, especially in light of recent challenges. He acknowledged the stress and sleepless nights following disappointing games, reflecting on how to better emphasize and communicate with his players. Wilcox is keenly aware of the mental aspect of the game, recognizing that confidence and belief play critical roles in performance. He understands the temptation for teams to seek comfort in tough times but emphasizes the importance of staying engaged and focused on improvement.

Wilcox is mindful of the negativity that can arise from disappointing performances and aims to create a constructive environment that fosters resilience and growth. He believes that coaches must seek solutions rather than dwell on misfortunes, encouraging accountability and a commitment to executing plays effectively. He also mentioned the adjustments made in practice and personnel to enhance competitiveness and improve performance.

As the team prepares to face Oregon State, Wilcox is not just focused on the tactical elements of the game but is also invested in the psychological and emotional well-being of his players. He acknowledges the need for a positive mindset while recognizing the reality of their current situation. The balance between fostering a competitive spirit and maintaining morale is crucial, and Wilcox’s leadership will be pivotal as they approach this critical matchup.

However, Justin Wilcox’s reflections ahead of the game against Oregon State reveal a coach deeply invested in both the tactical and emotional aspects of his team. His emphasis on injury management, execution in critical moments, and the collective responsibility of all units illustrates a thoughtful and proactive approach to overcoming challenges. As Cal prepares to face the Beavers, the focus will be on harnessing their potential, learning from past experiences, and striving for improvement in the hopes of securing a much-needed victory.