The San Diego State Aztecs and the Cal Bears meet for the first time since 1996, both looking for their second win. We analyze the Golden State matchup below in the Cal vs. San Diego State prediction and game preview.

Cal vs. San Diego State Prediction & Preview

Broadcast

Date: Saturday, September 12
Game Time: 5:00 ET
Network: Pac-12 Network

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Why You Need To Care

There is an opening in the Pac-12 North, Cal. Go seize it. Oregon aside, the North is way down this year, which is promising news for a Bear squad looking to break through this fall. Sonny Dykes’ kids opened with a shellacking of Grambling State, 73-14, but San Diego State presents a much stiffer challenge. The Aztecs, too, rode the back of an FCS team in Week 1, and are itching to finally rise from steady to spectacular in 2015.

Why San Diego State Will Win

The Aztecs present challenges to Cal, which relies on the pass and is perennially repairing the defense. San Diego State will attack that suspect D with game-breaking back Donnel Pumphrey. And an experienced back seven, led by linebackers Calvin Munson and Jake Fely and corners Damontae Kazee and J.J. Whittaker, can keep QB Jared Goff from taking the game over.

Why Cal Will Win

The Bears have balance on offense, nuancing backs Daniel Lasco and Vic Enwere with the high-octane passing attack. The Aztecs, on the other hand, don’t have the consistent passing game to complement the running of Pumphrey. Kentucky transfer Maxwell Smith was erratic in his debut, and the receivers and blockers are just okay. Cal has the far more complete offense in this game.

Player Who Matters

Cal believes it has a better D-line than in recent years. Facing a San Diego State front with three new starters provides a chance to prove it. The Aztecs are especially questionable on the interior, while the Bears are excited about their D-tackles, Mustafa Jalil and Wake Forest transfer James Looney. Plus, DE Kyle Kragen has the quickness and motor to get around San Diego State’s enormous tackles.

What’s Going To Happen?

Never count out a Rocky Long-coached team, especially one with defensive talent. But Pumphrey alone won’t be enough to outscore the Cal offense. Goff continues to mature, aided by a terrific cast of skill players. San Diego State won’t go away without a fight, but the Bears will have too much offensive firepower to squander this chance to start 2-0.

Cal vs. San Diego State Score Prediction

Last, but not least, the Cal vs. San Diego State prediction is …

Final Score: Cal 34, San Diego State 24

Must See Rating: 5: Ferrell Takes the Field 1 – 1: A Walk in The Woods … 2.5

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