Panthers’ Rivera still pledges allegiance to Cal, balks at word ‘Stanford’

SANTA CLARA — Ron Rivera is 36 years removed from his days as a Cal linebacker and that’s still not enough time for him to warm up to their bitter rival, Stanford.

Or, “The Farm,” as he can only refer to the Cardinal.

Never mind that it’s a former Stanford star, Christian McCaffrey, who is leading the Carolina Panthers (4-2) into Sunday’s visit to the undefeated 49ers (6-0).