The Cal Golden Bears (4-0) look to remain unbeaten and ranked when the Washington State Cougars (2-1) visit this weekend. Check out the Cal vs. Washington State prediction and game preview.

Cal vs. Washington State Game Preview

Broadcast

Date: Saturday, October 3

Game Time: 4:00 ET

Network: Pac-12 Network

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Why You Need To Care

No. 24 Cal is riding high these days, sweeping a tough September schedule that included recent road trips to Texas and Washington. But the Bears, who are ranked for the first time in more than five years, must maintain their focus and handle this rare bout with prosperity. In a year that Oregon and Stanford are mortal, Cal is liable to do more than just qualify for a bowl game. Wazzu returns to work after sitting out on a bye last weekend. The Cougars are riding their first two-game winning streak since 2013, beating Rutgers and Wyoming.

Why Washington State Will Win

Both teams employ an Air Raid offense popularized by Cougar head coach Mike Leach. And while Washington State’s isn’t as prolific as Cal’s, the Cougars will still move the chains on the Bear defense. Luke Falk is becoming more comfortable as Leach’s new gunslinger, aided by the presence of seasoned receivers Gabe Marks, Dom Williams and River Cracraft.

Why Cal Will Win

Cal is the better version of the Wazzu attack. The Bears have been battle-tested the last three weeks, yet have still averaged close to 40 points over that stretch. Jared Goff is one of the premier quarterbacks in the country, and top RB Daniel Lasco is expected to join Kenny Lawler and a corps of receivers every bit as dangerous as Washington State’s. The Cougars are allowing 71.4% of opposing passes to be completed, highest in the Pac-12.

Player Who Matters

Cal has elevated from entertaining to threatening because of the growth of the defense. A glaring liability for so long, the Bears are respectable right now because of the play of LB Jalen Jefferson, DE Kyle Kragen and a secondary performing well above its usual pay scale. Shockingly, Cal is No. 18 nationally in pass efficiency D, yielding just two touchdowns and picking off nine passes.

What’s Going To Happen?

Keep your eye on the ball, Cal. Now is not the time to be looking ahead to upcoming road trips to Utah and UCLA. The Bears will be inspired by the improved energy in Berkeley, outgunning Washington State behind Goff and his myriad weapons. The D will allow a bunch of yards, but compensate by winning the turnover margin.

Cal vs. Washington State Prediction

Prediction: Cal 45, Washington State 27, Line: Cal -19, o/u: 70.5

Must See Rating: 5: Steve Jobs – 1: Dr. Ken … 2.5

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