UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors have defeated the California Bears, 35-31, in the Hawaii Bowl on December 27, 2023, marking a heartbreaking end to Cal’s season. Backup quarterback Luke Weaver threw a 13-yard touchdown pass to Nick Cenacle with just 10 seconds left in the game, completing an incredible comeback from a 21-point deficit.
The Bears, who had dreams of an eight-win season, surged ahead 31-28 thanks to a 1-yard touchdown run by freshman Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele with 1:57 remaining. This followed a meticulously executed 75-yard drive that began with 7:19 left on the clock. However, Hawaii responded with resilience, marching down the field to clinch victory in a dramatic finish.
Earlier in the match, Cal dominated the first half, establishing a commanding 21-0 lead with touchdowns on their first three possessions. Despite their early dominance, the Rainbow Warriors began to find their rhythm, with freshman starter Micah Alejado leading a strong rally before exiting due to injury.
Hawaii (9-5) showcased remarkable tenacity, scoring on five consecutive possessions. The comeback gained momentum when Alejado tossed a 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon White, reducing Cal’s lead to 28-24 with 7:19 left. The Warriors capitalized on a series of defensive stands against the Bears, ultimately tying the game on a successful two-point conversion.
The tension escalated as the clock ticked down, culminating in the final moments that saw Hawaii take control. Following the victory, a brief shoving match erupted on the field, but players eventually separated peacefully.
Cal’s interim head coach Tosh Lupoi, who will lead the Bears into the next season, expressed disappointment in the loss but highlighted the team’s potential moving forward. This game marks a significant shift for the program as they look to recover from a challenging season.
As the Bears (7-6) head into the offseason, attention turns to Lupoi, who has been tasked with reinvigorating the team after the departure of former head coach Justin Wilcox. The Bears now face a critical period of reflection and rebuilding as they prepare for the 2026 season.
This thrilling finish is sure to resonate with fans and analysts alike, as it highlights the unpredictable nature of college football and the resilience of both teams involved. The Hawaii Bowl not only showcased a remarkable comeback but also set the stage for an exciting future for the Rainbow Warriors. Stay tuned for further updates and analysis on this developing story.
