Cal beats BYU behind stalwart defensive effort

PROVO, Utah — Cal trimmed its quarterback competition from three players to two Saturday night.

Of course, the identity of the Bears’ quarterback might not matter much, if their defense keeps playing this way.

Cal’s defense yielded just 2.8 yards per play and didn’t allow a touchdown until the closing minute for a stalwart effort that covered up any quarterbacking imperfections in a 21-18 victory at Lavell Edwards Stadium.

Cal redshirt freshman quarterback Chase Garbers got his first collegiate start and took the first snap of all but two series, rotating out only occasionally to give way to transfer Brandon McIlwain and the Bears’ heavy running package.