Bay Area Sports: Ranking the Top 30 Players

Nov 14, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Jared Goff (16) looks for an open receiver against the Oregon State Beavers during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

#24 – Jared Goff, Cal Bears Football

Jared Goff, the Cal Bears junior quarterback, is barely past legal drinking age, but he’s considered the best quarterback available in the upcoming NFL draft, should he declare a year early. The offense around him isn’t exactly the best in the Pac-12, but Goff is an excellent quarterback who can make players around him look better.

It took less than three full seasons, but Goff already holds nearly all of the school’s passing records. He has over 200 completions more than any other quarterback that Cal has fielded. He’s the first passer in Cal history with over 10,000 yards through the air. His 85 passing scores are nearly 20 more than anyone else. He’s the first quarterback in Pac-12 history to pass for over 3,000 yards in each of his first three seasons. If Goff decides to return for his senior season, he could begin approaching all-time Division-1 records.

It would be understandable if Goff were to forego his senior season in lieu of the fame (and money) that NFL has to offer. After all, how much higher could his stock really rise? But there’s an interesting case to be made for him staying. The team has improved over each of his three years, and this year, is Bowl eligible for the first time in five years. With another season of work under head coach Sonny Dykes, the team could make another leap next year. With Goff at the helm, the Bears can continue their ascent.

Next: An Athletic Return