UPDATE: In a dramatic showdown at Lane Stadium, Cal’s hopes for early bowl eligibility took a devastating blow as they fell to Virginia Tech 42-34 in double overtime late Friday night. The loss leaves Cal with a 5-3 record, missing a critical chance to secure bowl eligibility earlier than they have since 2006.
The game saw an intense back-and-forth, culminating in a nail-biting overtime. Cal struck first in the extra period with a 25-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele to tight end Mason Mini. However, Virginia Tech quickly answered with quarterback Kyron Drones rushing for a 17-yard touchdown, leveling the score at 34-34.
In the second overtime, Virginia Tech seized the opportunity, with Drones connecting with Takye Heath for a 7-yard touchdown pass, marking Drones’ third touchdown of the night. He then executed a successful two-point conversion, pushing the Hokies ahead 42-34. Cal’s final drive ended in disappointment as Sagapolutele’s four consecutive incomplete passes sealed the game.
Virginia Tech, now 3-5, showcased a powerful ground game, amassing 357 rushing yards against a struggling Cal defense. In contrast, Cal managed only 39 rushing yards, unable to keep pace with the Hokies’ relentless attack.
Drones was a standout performer, rushing for 137 yards and scoring two touchdowns, while also throwing three touchdown passes. Sagapolutele completed 24 of 39 passes for 285 yards with one touchdown and no turnovers, showcasing resilience despite the loss. Linebacker Cade Uluave delivered a stellar defensive performance with 19 tackles, including three tackles for loss and two sacks.
The Bears initially trailed 10-0 but turned the tide to lead 20-10 at halftime. However, Virginia Tech responded with a powerful second half, scoring 17 unanswered points. Drones’ 14-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter put the Hokies ahead 27-20, before Cal managed to tie the game again with a late touchdown.
As the game progressed, Cal struggled to find offensive rhythm, particularly in the third quarter, where they were outgained 172 yards to 16. This trend continued into the fourth quarter, where they faced a critical interception that kept their hopes alive.
Cal now enters a challenging stretch of their season, facing No. 16 Virginia at home next Saturday. The Bears will need to regroup quickly to keep their bowl eligibility aspirations alive amid mounting pressure.
Fans and analysts alike are left reflecting on this thrilling contest, with many eagerly anticipating how Cal will respond in their upcoming games. The urgency of their situation couldn’t be clearer—every game now carries immense weight as they aim to turn their season around.
