Pac-12 Predictions: Week 2 picks against the spread

Sep 5, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears linebacker Devante Downs (1) celebrates with safety Khari Vanderbilt (39) and linebacker Hardy Nickerson (47) after scoring a touchdown on an interception against the Grambling State Tigers during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

San Diego State Aztecs At California Golden Bears

Berkeley, California

The Line: California -7.5

Yes, that is the California Golden Bears, a team that just whooped Grambling State 73-14, getting just over a touchdown against the Aztecs. This is a gift from the football gods. Go to Las Vegas, put down some money, and enjoy the winnings. After all, San Diego State is a decent program, but they went just 7-6 last year. Not to mention that the Aztecs are facing a Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback who scores points almost effortlessly. This game will on the Pac-12 Network at 2:00 PM, PT, on Saturday.

Keys To The Game:

It is all about the defense for the Bears, and that side of the ball has allegedly improved since the debacle of 2014. San Diego State has a quality offense, but it is not one that should put fear into the hearts of most power five schools. In the 38-7 opening week victory over Northern Arizona, the Aztecs ran with impunity, rushing 37 times for 194 yards and three touchdowns. That will be the best bet for San Diego State, as the Bears pass defense was spectacular in week 1, picking on Grambling State four times and holding them to just 170 total yards through the air.

Prediction:

No one can stop the juggernaut that is Jared Goff and the Cal passing attack, and that includes the Aztecs. While they will score more than 14 points, they will not be able to come close to keeping the score respectable. Cal scored almost 40 points a game in 2014, and a 7.5 point spread means that Las Vegas is expecting San Diego State to score somewhere around 35 points in this game. I do not think that happens, and Cal runs away with a 62-28 win.

Next: Utah State At Utah