Cal Football: Can Golden Bears become sneaky contenders in 2019?

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 10: Chase Garbers #7 of the California Golden Bears reacts to his running touchdown to take a 15-14 lead over the USC Trojans at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on November 10, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

4 of 5

(Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

Experience, production are strengths for Cal’s special teams

Kicker Greg Thomas made 12 field goals as a junior, including a 46-yarder and converted all 32 extra point attempts. Punter Steven Coutts averaged 41.5 yards on 72 punts, as a junior, including 37 kicks inside the 20-yard line.

Despite being a play-making safety, Davis was also electrifying as the team’s leading kick returner. He finished second in the Pac-12 with 629 yards, averaged 26.2 per return and returned an 89-yard kickoff for a score against Idaho State.

California had three losses by a touchdown or less last season. Thomas, Coutts and Davis will be difference-makers in the Golden Bears’ close games this fall. All three players will contribute to the team’s field position and will determine how far California can navigate through the Pac-12 meat-grinder.

Home/California Golden Bears