After California gave up a school-record 45.9 points and 529 yards of total offense per game this season, it was only a matter of time before head coach Sonny Dykes shook up the staff in hopes of improving a historically bad defense.
Dykes did just that Wednesday, demoting defensive coordinator Andy Buh and firing defensive tackles coach Barry Sacks and defensive backs coach Randy Stewart.
"Defense is a critical part of the equation in winning championships," Dykes said in a statement. "I will look to hire a defensive coordinator with significant experience in that role who can lead our defensive unit to success in one of the most prolific offensive conferences in the country."
The Golden Bears gave up 40 or more points in all but three games, finishing second-to-last in the FBS in points and total yards allowed and dead last in passing yards allowed.
Whoever takes over as defensive coordinator should inherit a good talent base, including cornerback Stefan McClure, defensive end/outside linebacker Brennan Scarlett, and defensive lineman Mustafa Jalil, though much of Cal's projected starting defense going into the 2013 season missed much or all of the campaign because of injury.
Two of the players that made it through the season largely unscathed -- linebacker Khairi Fortt and corner Kameron Jackson -- have announced plans to enter the 2014 NFL Draft.
Even taking into account those significant personnel issues, Cal's game plan rarely looked sound and players struggled with basic fundamentals.
With the newfound strength of the Pac-12, academic struggles, and a major talent drain, Dykes holds the toughest position in the conference. Giving up on much of the defensive staff he hired barely a year ago reflects as much.
Follow Dan Greenspan on Twitter @DanGreenspan.