CAL is a big play team they thrive off of the 15+ yard receptions so naturally they aren't going to have as many first downs as a ground and pound team like DeSales. Also I think it's important to remember that many of the yards and first downs they got were at the end of the game when the second string QB came in and CAL sat back and let him run the clock down.
Last year yes, when the safety broke his leg first play of the game and tight end and defensive end broke ribs later in the game wasn't in on PAT and the reason for the block. Not saying injuries aren't part of the game but they definitely played a major part last year
I would argue that it is not necessarily the adjustments that DeSales made that allowed them to win the past few years but instead the injuries CAL suffered with losing their QB two years ago and their TE, DE, and Safety last year.
This should be a close game if both teams can prevent turnovers and come ready to play which I expect they will. CAL has an incredible defense which will be hard for the Colts to handle. Looking forward to Friday Night!
CAL 21 - 10