Jeff Tedford and Big Games Are Not Friends

Jeff Tedford should know that there have been questions about his ability to win big games, specifically in the Pac-10. Usually, the questions are centered around the fact that the Bears have not been able to pull out a victory over USC, but today's game was the start of what was supposed to make the Bears' season.

The question that now remains is this the team of 2007 that started off strong and then went on to lose five out of the six games? In the 2007 season, it was an injury against Oregon that began their slide. This time it's going to be a loss to Oregon that will start the Bears' slide from contender to pretender.

I think Bear fans have an idea on what to expect from the Bears in big games in the Pac-10 and that is an undisciplined team that doesn't play with any kind of intensity.

If you look at the numbers coming into the games for the Bears and the Ducks, it was clear that the Bears were the better team, regardless of who the teams played. Cal had Heisman contender Jahvid Best leading the way, but after today's game, he's out of it.

Since Tedford's arrival in Berkeley, there has really been one quarterback that you could even remotely say would come up in a big game- that man was Aaron Rodgers.

Can any Cal fan say that since that point the Bears have had a quarterback that has produced the numbers that Rodgers put up? The answer is no, and Tedford is supposed to be a coach that has had a hand in the development of some pretty solid quarterbacks.  It seems like there has been only one quarterback in his tenure that he has truly developed into that leader.

Nate Longshore had the ability to be that leader, but he was plagued by injuries. Kevin Riley has shown flashes of brilliance, but really hasn't done anything consistent and it may be time for the Bears to look at Brock Mansion as their starter.

The Bears are a top 25 team under Tedford. I just don't see them every getting over the hump with Tedford at the helm. Tedford has brought in some very talented players, but it seems like in every meaningful Pac-10 game, something happens and the Bears aren't able to get that victory.

Last year against USC, the Bears had a chance to score a touchdown to put the game in reach and maybe a chance to win the game, but due to a wide receiver not lining up properly, the touchdown catch by Shane Vereen was nullified.

Last year against Arizona, the Bears let a freshman running back run through their defense.

Back in 2007, the Bears had a chance to be ranked No. 1 when Riley tried to score a touchdown with the clock winding down. The Bears only needed a field goal to tie the game.

But then again, Nate Longshore was injured and there was no way the Bears were going to retain that position and Longshore tried playing hurt, but struggled and the Bears ended up losing five of the last six games.

In today's game, the Bears could have gained a ton of momentum if they had been able to score a touchdown after recovering the fumble on the opening kick. Instead, Andy Ludwig, the offensive coordinator, called three passes that went for a total of negative eight yards and lead to a field goal of 47 yards.

It was just a sign of what was going to happen to the Bears' offense. There really weren't many bright spots for the Bears. Bad throws from Riley, missed opportunities by Cal receivers, no discipline by the receiver at one point, and the lack of use of Jahvid Best when the game was close.

Right now you just have to scratch your head and wonder if Tedford has what it takes to lead the Bears into a BCS game? Right now the answer is no! I realize he signed an extension, but if the Bears continue to play this lousy in big conference games, Tedford should be let go.