Marcus Mariota sees lack of discipline in Cal defense

Sep 14, 2013; Eugene, OR, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman Jordan Williams (54) reaches to block a pass from Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

While they may be a physical bunch, the defenders on the California Golden Bears are not exactly striking fear in the heart of Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota. In an interview on Thursday morning, Mariota said he’s noticed a lack of discipline when he’s been watching film of the Golden Bears, a flaw that could prove fatal if the Oregon Ducks kick their offense into high gear on Saturday night.

Said Mariota:

I would say that they’re kind of undisciplined with their eyes a little bit. They tend to bite on run fakes and they get beat over the top a little bit so we’ll see. They’ve had two weeks to prepare for us and they might come out with different looks. … I’m itching to see what they give us (Oregon Live).

The Cal defense has been much maligned in 2013, but the team has been dealing with injuries on that side of the ball all year. The Golden Bears should see the return of safety Michael Lowe and linebackers Nick Forbes and Michael Barton on Saturday. With a week to prepare and get healthy, don’t be surprised to see the Golden Bears put up a bit more of a fight than their 123rd-ranked defense might suggest on paper. Still, Mariota has the Oregon offense rolling this year, and Cal is going to need an incredible performance if they indeed plan on shocking the world.

[Source: Oregon Live]