Back in Berkeley: Cal Training Camp Documentary Episode 3

First off, it's game week. Let me say that again. It's freaking game week.

If you're anything like me, you're having a hard time sleeping at night. There's a bunch to get into this week, starting with the fact that the Bears face off against a very tricky Nevada offense that scorched the Bears for 52 points two years ago.

But we'll get to that. For now, enjoy episode 3 of "Back in Berkeley," a series that has seriously helped keep me sane over this very difficult offseason. And before this series is over, let me say that the Cal Marketing Department should certainly be commended for this effort. They've seriously stepped up their game in offering fans deeper looks into this team and helping to build interest.

Enjoy!

My thoughts after the jump.

After a bit of a prologue highlighting the importance of week 3 in determining the depth chart, we're given a look at a WR film session with Coach Wes Chandler. The session is much like a class, with receivers going back and forth between watching film and getting coached up by Chandler. And must I say, Maurice Harris, your hair looks fantastic.

The team had also invited some reps from the Marines to come in and speak with the team. As to whether these sessions really do lead to improved teamwork and trust, better off-the-field behavior, etc can't really be measured, but it's good to know that they're taking place.

We finally get to see Coach Ashley Ambrose mic'd up and coaching up the secondary. The guy looks like he could still ball in the NFL. You can tell why he's developing into a solid recruiter. He's got charisma, and provides nice energy in his coaching sessions. All the coaches seem to be flying around, with Tedford running up to give a player a high five as well.

And pretty nice play on the ball by Marc Anthony on frosh Bryce Treggs. With Treggs going up to get the ball in the endzone, Anthony keeps his hands locked on Treggs' hands, knocking the ball out at the last minute.

The next part of video is a real gem. The Bears' typically engage in some team building activities to help bond the team as well as promote competition. And though some of the activities may seem a bit silly (ie. tug of war, catch eggs, flipping tires, having linemen return punts), you can see the team really into it. You'd have to hope that teams that are able to get even closer during long fall camp days are more likely to do so in tough moments in games. And having Viliami Moala return punts? Iiiiiiiiiinteresting....

With breaks in between meetings and practices, the majority of guys are plugging in power naps or brushing up on the playbook. It really goes to show you what August is like for these kids. Like center Brian Schwenke says, "It's sleep and football."

Unless you're Zach Kline. If you're Zach Kline, it's football and acoustic guitar. Zach Kline don't need no sleep. Zach Kline throws 70 yard rockets down the field and then busts out Stairway to Heaven. Zach Kline throws 25 yard outs and sweetly picks Santana solos. Sleep? Pff. Sleep.

And again, Memorial Stadium looks GORGEOUS. Sigh. 6 days.