Sam Jackson V Thinks Cal RB Jaydn Ott Will Be OK

Cal center Matthew Cindric will miss the rest of the season. No definitive word on Ott, who was injured in the third quarter

Cal center Matthew Cindric, the team best offensive lineman, is out for the rest of the season, and the status of standout Bears running back Jaydn Ott is uncertain.

Ott was injured in the third quarter Saturday when he tried to hurdle a tackler and was upended, landing on his back and head. It was a scary-looking landing, and Ott remained on the ground for about two minutes.  But he eventually got up and walked off with an escort but with no assistance.

Asked after the game when what Ott's status is, Cal coach Justin Wilcox said, "I don't know."

However, Cal quarterback Sam Jackson was optimistic about Ott's status after having a brief conversation with him.

"I think he's going to be fine," Jackson said. "I talked to him after the game."

There is no definitive word on whether Ott will be ready for next Saturday's home game against Idaho.  Presumably Isaiah Ifane and Ashton Stredick would get the carries if Ott cannot play.

Ott rushed for 188 yards in the season-opening win over North Texas and ran for 78 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries against Auburn.

The situation is different for Cindric, who was injured in the season opener, did not play Saturday and will miss the rest of the season.

"Unfortunately Matt Cindric will not be with us for the remainder of the season," Wilcox said. "It's upper body. I feel awful for him. The guy has battled through a lot. He's one of our best players. He's a team captain voted on by everyone. My heart break for him. It means a lot to him and it's unfortunate."

Cindric was on the fence about returning for the 2023 season, which was his sixth year on the Cal roster. He decided to play one more season, and now that season is over.

Cover photo of Jaydn Ott by Neville E. Guard, USA TODAY Sports

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