The California Golden Bears had one of the worst defenses in college football last season. They might have one of the best defenders in the nation this season.
Devante Downs made his way onto the LOTT Impact Trophy watchlist (awarded to the player with the greatest defensive impact) after three stellar performances against North Carolina (13 tackles), Ole Miss (14 tackles, 3 TFL, 2 sacks) and USC (14 tackles). Downs is currently sixth in the nation with 54 tackles, second among all Power 5 defenders. Downs added eight more tackles against Oregon.
With Cameron Saffle now out for this season, the defense belongs to Devante Downs.