Jared Goff has become a household name in the NFL, known for his quarterback prowess and leadership. But before he was leading NFL offenses, Goff honed his skills at the University of California, Berkeley, playing for the Cal Golden Bears. His college career was nothing short of spectacular, setting numerous records and paving the way for his successful transition to professional football. This article delves into Jared Goff’s college journey, exploring his time at Cal, his remarkable achievements, and how his experience as a Golden Bear shaped him into the player he is today.
Goff’s decision to attend the University of California, Berkeley, proved to be a pivotal moment in his football career. From 2013 to 2015, he was the face of the Cal football program, starting every single game during his three seasons. This immediately set him apart, as he became the only quarterback in Cal history to start his very first game as a true freshman. Stepping onto the field as a newcomer, Goff quickly demonstrated his talent and potential, signaling the start of an extraordinary college trajectory.
During his time with the Golden Bears, Jared Goff didn’t just play; he dominated. He etched his name into the Cal record books, setting an astounding 26 school records. These weren’t just minor records; they were significant achievements that highlighted his exceptional abilities as a quarterback. Among his career records, Goff boasts the most passing yards (12,220), passing yards per game (329.7 ypg), and touchdown passes (96). He also leads in completions (977), passing attempts (1,569), total offense (12,086), and total plays (1,739). These statistics paint a clear picture of Goff’s consistent excellence and his impact on the Cal offense.
Image alt text: Jared Goff in his Cal Golden Bears uniform, showcasing his throwing motion during a college football game. Alt text focuses on visual description and relevant keywords like “Jared Goff,” “Cal Golden Bears,” and “college football game.”
While rewriting the record books, Goff also climbed to second place on Cal’s all-time list for passing efficiency, with a rating of 143.95. He stands just behind another Cal legend and NFL star, Aaron Rodgers, in this prestigious ranking. This achievement underscores Goff’s accuracy and decision-making in the pocket, qualities that are essential for success at the quarterback position.
His junior season in 2015 was particularly remarkable. Goff set Pac-12 single-season records with an impressive 4,719 passing yards and 43 touchdown passes. This performance not only solidified his place among the nation’s top college quarterbacks but also earned him first-team All-Pac-12 honors. Notably, he was the first Cal quarterback to receive this recognition since Aaron Rodgers in 2004, further cementing his legacy in the program. Under Goff’s leadership, the 2015 Cal team achieved an 8-5 record, marking their first winning season and bowl game appearance since 2011, and their first post-season victory since 2008.
Jared Goff’s Impactful Seasons at Cal
To truly appreciate the magnitude of Jared Goff’s college career, it’s essential to look closer at each of his seasons with the Cal Golden Bears.
Freshman Year (2013): A Record-Setting Debut
In 2013, as a true freshman, Jared Goff stepped into the spotlight and immediately made an impact. He started all 12 games, a historic feat in itself for a Cal quarterback. Despite being a newcomer, Goff shattered Cal’s single-season records, setting new benchmarks for passing yards (3,508), passes completed (320), and passes attempted (531). He also tied the school record for 300-yard passing games in a season with five. His debut season showcased his raw talent and hinted at the greatness to come. Notably, in a game against Washington State, Goff threw for a then school-record 504 passing yards, demonstrating his ability to deliver exceptional performances even as a freshman.
Sophomore Year (2014): Building on Success and Earning Captaincy
Goff’s sophomore season in 2014 saw him build upon his freshman success and elevate his game further. He was elected team captain by his teammates, a testament to his leadership qualities and the respect he commanded within the team. Statistically, he broke his own single-season passing yardage record from 2013, reaching 3,973 yards. He also set a new school record for touchdown passes in a season with 35. Nationally, Goff ranked among the top 10 in multiple categories, including passing yards, passing touchdowns, and passing yards per game. His consistency and high level of play earned him honorable mention All-Pac-12 honors for the second consecutive season. A highlight of his sophomore year was a game against Washington State where he threw for a then school-record 527 passing yards and five touchdowns.
Image alt text: Action shot of Jared Goff throwing a football during a Cal Golden Bears game, emphasizing his athleticism and skill. Alt text focuses on action, keywords “Jared Goff,” “Cal Golden Bears,” and “college football game.”
Junior Year (2015): Record-Breaking Numbers and All-Pac-12 Recognition
2015 marked Jared Goff’s junior and final season at Cal, and it was arguably his most impressive. He once again started every game and was voted team captain for the second year in a row. Goff shattered Pac-12 single-season records with 4,719 passing yards and 43 touchdown passes. These numbers led the Pac-12 and ranked him third nationally in both categories. His exceptional performance earned him first-team All-Pac-12 honors, the first Cal quarterback to achieve this since Aaron Rodgers in 2004. Goff also led Cal to a Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl victory, where he was named the game’s Most Outstanding Player after setting bowl single-game records with 467 passing yards and six touchdowns. His junior year solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in college football and a highly touted NFL prospect.
Statistical Dominance: Goff’s Cal Career Numbers
Jared Goff’s college statistics speak volumes about his talent and impact. Here’s a summary of his key career stats at Cal:
- Games Started: 37 (every game in his three seasons)
- Passing Yards: 12,220 (Cal Career Record)
- Passing Yards Per Game: 329.7 (Cal Career Record)
- Touchdown Passes: 96 (Cal Career Record)
- Completions: 977 (Cal Career Record)
- Passing Attempts: 1,569 (Cal Career Record)
- Total Offense: 12,086 (Cal Career Record)
- Total Plays: 1,739 (Cal Career Record)
- Passing Efficiency: 143.95 (2nd in Cal History)
- Pac-12 Single-Season Passing Yards Record (2015): 4,719
- Pac-12 Single-Season Touchdown Passes Record (2015): 43
These numbers not only highlight Goff’s individual achievements but also underscore his consistency and durability throughout his college career. He was a reliable and productive quarterback who consistently delivered for the Golden Bears.
From Berkeley to the NFL Draft: Goff’s Professional Journey Begins
After an outstanding junior season, Jared Goff declared for the 2016 NFL Draft, foregoing his final year of college eligibility. This decision was widely anticipated, given his exceptional college performance and the NFL potential he displayed at Cal.
Leading up to the draft, Goff was projected by many analysts to be a top pick, with some even predicting he would be the first overall selection. These projections proved accurate when the Los Angeles Rams selected Jared Goff as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. This momentous occasion made him only the second Cal player to be drafted first overall in the NFL, joining quarterback Steve Bartkowski, who was selected in 1975.
Image alt text: Jared Goff on NFL Draft day, wearing a suit and hat, shaking hands with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being drafted No. 1 overall. Alt text includes “Jared Goff,” “NFL Draft,” “No. 1 overall pick,” and “Roger Goodell” for context and SEO.
Goff’s selection as the top pick was a culmination of his hard work and dedication during his time at Cal. It was a proud moment for the University of California, Berkeley, and a testament to the quality of their football program. His successful transition from college to the NFL further solidified his legacy as a Golden Bear legend.
Conclusion: Cal – The Launchpad for Jared Goff’s Success
Jared Goff’s journey to NFL stardom began at the University of California, Berkeley. His time with the Cal Golden Bears was marked by record-breaking performances, consistent excellence, and unwavering leadership. He not only answered the question of Where Did Jared Goff Go To College but also defined his college career with remarkable achievements. From setting 26 school records to earning All-Pac-12 honors and becoming the No. 1 overall NFL draft pick, Goff’s Cal career was a resounding success. The University of California, Berkeley, served as the perfect launchpad for his professional career, providing him with the platform to hone his skills and showcase his immense talent. For fans and aspiring football players alike, Jared Goff’s college story is a compelling example of how dedication, hard work, and choosing the right college program can pave the way for achieving dreams on and off the field.
