As a long-time NFL draftnik, I pay close attention to pro prospects. Right now the consensus player to be the first quarterback picked in the 2019 draft is Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert following his strong performance against Stanford last week.

The Ducks, however, blew a 24-7 second-half lead in that game losing 38-31 in overtime to the Cardinal. Some have the feeling the Ducks can't come back from that loss. I'm not one of them. Oregon is itching to play again while California has been idle since meeting FCS-member Idaho State on Sept. 15. I don't believe the Golden Bears are in Oregon's class. They don't have the downfield passing attack to keep up with Herbert and their star running back, Patrick Laird, is having a disappointing season averaging fewer than three yards per carry.

Cal's defense has improved a great deal, but its passing offense isn't going to cut it against a Ducks defense that ranks third in the country in yards per carry.

This is a step-up game for the Golden Bears. I envision Oregon's outstanding offensive line giving Herbert the necessary time to dissect Cal's secondary and the Golden Bears having problems running on the Ducks.

Oregon is the more talented team here. The Ducks have defeated the Golden Bears in eight of the past nine meetings, including winning by three touchdowns last year.

(Editor's note: Stephen Nover is one of the hottest college football 'cappers in North America going 15-4 on his Saturday premium/free plays. Don't miss any of Stephen's winners this weekend!)