In an era when teams are setting offensive records on a seemingly weekly basis, the Cheez-It Bowl has the makings of a throwback game centered on, what else, defense.
TCU is the Big 12’s best defense, ranking No. 26 nationally. Gary Patterson is known for his defense and his patented 4-2-5 scheme continues to get the job done.
Cal is ranked No. 16 in total defense nationally. Justin Wilcox has worked wonders in turning around the Bears’ program, implementing a 3-4 defense.
So this should be an intriguing game, one that shows different defensive formations – a 4-2-5 program and a 3-4 program – can still be effective.