Pac-12 quarterback power rankings: Does Shedeur Sanders crack the top tier?

Oct 28, 2023; Pasadena, California, USA; Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders reacts against the UCLA Bruins at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 28, 2023; Pasadena, California, USA; Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders reacts against the UCLA Bruins at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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Nov 4, 2023; Eugene, Oregon, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) throws the ball during the second half against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 4, 2023; Eugene, Oregon, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) throws the ball during the second half against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports

Pac-12 QB rankings No. 10: Fernando Mendoza

  • Passing yards: 825
  • TD: 6 INT: 4
  • Comp: 60.2%
  • YPA: 6.7

The Cal Golden Bears have found some life. A lot of their recent offensive production has come from stud running back Jaydn Ott, but the change to Mendoza hasn’t hurt either. Mendoza struggled in the 63-19 loss to Oregon in Week 10, going 18-34 passing for 177 yards with an interception. Who doesn’t struggle against Oregon’s defense?

Mendoza isn’t just the most accurate quarterback that Cal has on its roster, but he also pushes the ball downfield a bit. He has an average depth of target (ADOT) of 9.1. On top of being aggressive with his arm, he’s a threat with his legs.

Mendoza has rushed for 86 yards, but that number is really 143 without negative yardage from sacks. He’s also scored twice on the ground.