Ron Rivera’s Encouraging Words to Cal Players and Fans After First Loss
Cal football faced its first setback of the season last Saturday, suffering a surprising 34-0 defeat against San Diego State. This loss marked a significant moment for the program as Ron Rivera, Cal’s first general manager, witnessed a stark contrast from the team’s earlier success.
Ron Rivera’s Insights After the Loss
Rivera, an All-American linebacker at Cal decades ago and a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, evaluated the game critically. He noted, “I saw an immature team, a young team, a team that’s learning and growing.” The Bears, who had won their first three games, struggled during this matchup. Rivera emphasized the need for the team to mature and handle setbacks better, stating, “You can’t let certain things change the way you’re approaching a game.”
Game Highlights and Challenges
Cal’s inability to convert a promising drive into points set a negative tone early in the game. Starting strong, they reached the 2-yard line but failed to score. Rivera pointed out that this moment affected the team’s confidence and overall performance as the game progressed.
Future Focus: Building Resilience
Looking ahead, Cal will face Boston College in their ACC opener next Saturday. Rivera praised head coach Justin Wilcox for his direct approach during Monday’s team meeting. Wilcox instructed players to move beyond the past loss, stating, “What happened on Saturday doesn’t exist anymore.”
Developing Young Talent
Freshman quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele experienced a challenging introduction to collegiate football. Despite showing promise in previous games, he completed only 10 of 30 passes against San Diego State and threw two interceptions. Rivera offered a measured view, explaining the importance of taking things one step at a time. “You can’t do everything by yourself,” he reminded.
- Upcoming Games: Cal plays against Boston College
- Key Player: Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele
- Head Coach: Justin Wilcox
Message to Fans
Rivera addressed the challenges facing Cal fans. Many supporters are eager for success but may feel discouraged after setbacks. Rivera stressed the importance of steadfast belief in the team, saying, “You can’t sit there and think, `Here we go again.’” He encouraged fans to maintain support through every challenge, mirroring his own experience coaching the Carolina Panthers.
Looking Ahead
To move forward, Rivera emphasized changing mindsets. Success is fragile, and unwavering support is crucial for the program’s growth. By fostering resilience and encouraging teamwork, Rivera believes Cal can turn a page and aim for brighter days. The upcoming game against Boston College presents an opportunity to bounce back and reinforce this decade-long philosophy.
