Report: Cal Fires Head Coach Sonny Dykes


Cal has fired head coach Sonny Dykes, according to a report. In 2016, the Golden Bears finished fifth in the Pac-12 North division. 


That’s all she wrote, as the Golden Bears are in the market for a new head coach.

On Sunday, Cal fired head coach Sonny Dykes, according to a report from FOX Sports.

In four seasons in Berkeley, Dykes led the Golden Bears to a 19-30 record. In 2016, Cal finished 5-7 and was suffering through a four-game losing streak before beating a banged-up UCLA team in the last game of the season, 36-10.

The only bowl game the Golden Bears reached during Dykes’ tenure came in 2015. Following an 8-5 mark, Cal defeated Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl, 55-36.

Dykes initially took the job prior to the 2013 season, as he replaced Jeff Tedford, who had led the team to a 3-9 record the season before.

Two of the hottest names on the coaching circuit have already taken new jobs, as Tom Herman has gone to Texas, and P.J. Fleck is now leading Minnesota.

But the timing of Dykes’ firing does come about a week after the San Francisco 49ers fired Chip Kelly. The former Oregon head coach has stated he would not be opposed to returning to the collegiate level if the job was right, and the Cal job may be the right opportunity for him.

It would not be surprising if offensive coordinator Jake Spavital were to get an interview. This past season, he led the nation’s No. 4 passing offense (358.8 ypg). The Golden Bears also ranked No. 10 in total offense (513.2 ypg) and No. 22 in scoring offense (37.1 ppg).

However, targeting a defensive-minded coach may be the route to take. Cal ranked No. 125 in total defense (518.3 ypg) and No. 127 in scoring defense (42.6 ppg) in 2016.

MORE: P.J. Fleck Already Building Minnesota’s 2017 Recruiting Class