UPDATE: Cal’s hopes for bowl eligibility took a devastating blow with a 42-34 double-overtime loss to Virginia Tech at Lane Stadium on October 27, 2023. The Bears, who were aiming for their sixth win of the season, now face a challenging final stretch with four crucial games ahead.
The game was a rollercoaster, beginning with Virginia Tech jumping to a quick 10-0 lead. However, Cal rallied to take control, leading 20-10 at halftime. But the Hokies, resilient after firing their coach earlier this season, stormed back, scoring 17 unanswered points to seize a late-game lead.
In a thrilling overtime, Cal’s Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele connected with tight end Mason Mini for a 25-yard touchdown, but Virginia Tech’s quarterback Kyron Drones responded with a 17-yard rushing TD and a decisive 7-yard TD pass to Takye Heath in the second overtime, sealing the game at 42-34.
Cal’s defense struggled against Drones, who amassed 137 rushing yards and threw for three touchdowns. In contrast, the Bears managed only 39 rushing yards throughout the game. Despite this setback, Sagapolutele showcased his skills, completing 24 of 39 passes for 285 yards without a turnover, while linebacker Cade Uluave delivered a standout performance with 19 tackles.
As the game progressed, Cal’s momentum seemed to falter. After leading at halftime, they found themselves on the back foot as the Hokies outgained them significantly in the second half. Virginia Tech’s kicker, John Love, nearly clinched the victory in regulation, but his 45-yard field goal attempt hit the uprights with just over a minute left.
Now, with a record of 5-3 and 2-2 in the ACC, Cal’s path to bowl eligibility becomes increasingly difficult. They will host No. 16 Virginia next Saturday, a matchup that could define their season.
Virginia Tech improves to 3-5 and 2-2 in the ACC, showcasing their resilience after a rocky start to the season. The Hokies’ rushing attack, which totaled an impressive 357 yards, proved to be a pivotal factor in their victory.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Cal prepares for their next challenge, needing to regroup quickly to maintain hopes for a bowl game. The stakes have never been higher, and the Bears must find their footing against formidable opponents in the weeks to come.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Cal fights to turn their season around.
