Cal QB Sam Jackson V Reportedly Has Returned to Practice

Justin Wilcox said on Tuesday that Jackson is "day-to-day," but it appears Jackson is likely to be the Bears' starter against Auburn

Cal coach Justin Wilcox on Tuesday said quarterback Sam Jackson V's status for Saturday night's home game against Auburn is "day-to-day," suggesting Jackson is questionable for the game.

But Ben Finley, who would be the Bears' starting quarterback if Jackson can't go, said Jackson has returned to practice, implying Jackson will be ready to play against the Tigers.

"I'm glad Sam's healthy right now, and he's out at practice," Finley said Tuesday. "And whatever way they can utilize me for this Saturday, I just want to win and help the team win in any way."

Wilcox said Tuesday center Matthew Cindric is questionable for Saturday, but the focus is on the quarterback situation.

Wilcox said he has not ruled out the possibility of playing both Jackson and Finley against Auburn.

"I suppose everything is on the table," Wilcox said regarding the possibility of playing two quarterbacks. "We'll see where all that goes."

Jackson started Saturday's game against North Texas, but he left the game with an upper-body injury in the second quarter and was replaced by Finley, who performed admirably in the Bears' 58-21 road victory over North Texas.

Jackson is the better runner, but Finley is a more experienced passer.

Jackson left Saturday's game in the second quarter after getting injured on a run.  He had a harness on his left (non-throwing) arm after that, and Wilcox said immediately after the game that Jackson could have returned in an emergency situation.

When Jackson left the game in the second quarter the game was tied 14-14.  After Finley replaced Jackson, Cal outscored North Texas 44-7.

Before getting injured, Jackson was 3-for-4 for 33 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions for a passer rating of 226.8. He also ran three times for 18 yards.

Finley completed 24-of-34 passes with one touchdown and one interception for a passer rating of 143.34.  He had three carries for 9 yards.

Cindric is probably the Bears' best offensive lineman, but Cal's offensive line performed well after Brian Driscoll replaced Cindric at center in the second quarter.

Defensive lineman Nate Burrell also left Saturday's game against North Texas, but is expected to be ready for Saturday night's game.

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