Cam Ward, the dynamic quarterback for the Washington State Cougars, has shown flashes of brilliance in his two performances against the California Golden Bears, but like any developing player, there are areas where improvement is needed. As a transfer from Incarnate Word, Ward has had to adjust to the increased competition in the Pac-12, and his outings against Cal reflect both his potential and the challenges of playing at a higher level.
In his first meeting with Cal during the 2022 season, Ward demonstrated his playmaking ability, finishing the game with 343 passing yards, three touchdowns, and an interception. His ability to make throws from different angles and extend plays with his legs kept Cal’s defense on its heels. However, his performance was also marked by moments of inconsistency, particularly when it came to decision-making under pressure. The interception he threw came at a critical moment and was a result of forcing a pass into tight coverage. Additionally, while Ward’s athleticism allowed him to avoid sacks, his tendency to hold onto the ball too long occasionally led to broken plays.
In 2023, Ward faced Cal again, and while his stat line was impressive—throwing for over 300 yards and multiple touchdowns—many of the same issues persisted. One of the most glaring aspects of his performance was his inconsistency in managing pressure from Cal’s defensive front. While Ward has a natural ability to elude pass rushers, there were several instances where his mechanics broke down when forced to throw on the run. This led to some errant throws that could have been intercepted or resulted in missed opportunities for big gains.
Another area for improvement is Ward’s efficiency in the red zone. While he has shown the ability to march his team down the field, capitalizing on scoring opportunities inside the 20-yard line has been hit or miss. Against Cal, Ward occasionally struggled to make quick decisions when the field shortened, leading to stalled drives and field goal attempts instead of touchdowns. This is a critical aspect of his game that he needs to refine if he wants to elevate his play to an elite level.
Additionally, Ward needs to improve his ability to read complex defenses. Cal, known for its defensive schemes, managed to confuse him at times with disguised coverages. He occasionally locked onto his primary read, which made it easier for Cal’s secondary to anticipate his throws. Developing his ability to go through his progressions more quickly and confidently will help Ward reduce turnovers and exploit defenses more effectively.
Despite these areas for improvement, Ward has shown tremendous growth and has the potential to be one of the top quarterbacks in the Pac-12. His arm talent, mobility, and leadership qualities make him a dangerous playmaker. With continued focus on refining his mechanics under pressure, improving red-zone efficiency, and becoming more adept at reading defenses, Cam Ward has the tools to elevate his game and lead Washington State to greater success.