By George Devine, Sr.

After a dismal 2013 record of 11-1, the Golden Bears open on the road at Northwestern in Evanston, Illinois on August 30. The San Francisco Chronicle’s prediction is not optimistic, projecting a 12-2 record for the blue and gold this season. Coach Sonny Dykes expresses a more optimistic view.

Speaking at a preseason coaches’ press conference at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, the second-year coach points to the increasing maturity of quarterback Jared Goff, a true freshman last year. Dykes also swells with pride in noting the increased standings of Cal athletes — in particular the football players he is in charge of — when it comes to academic achievements and potential graduation rate. Goff, meanwhile, has spent the summer working on his accuracy of delivery and his selectivity in range. He is expected to work well with slot receiver Bryce Treggs in moving the ball downfield.

In the mean time, Dykes has high hopes for the defensive contributions to be made by seniors Austin Clark, Harrison Wilfley and Kyle Kragen, as well as junior Stefan McClure who this season moves from cornerback to safety.

Remaining games in the Bears’ season are:

September 6: Sacramento State, Noon

September 20: at Arizona State, TBA

September 27: Colorado, TBA

October 4: at Washington State, TBA

October 18: UCLA, TBA

October 24: Oregon, 7 p.m. PT, at Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara

November 1: at Oregon State, TBA

November 13: at USC, 6 pm, PT

November 22: Big Game vs. Stanford, TBA

November 29: Brigham Young, TBA