The California Golden Bears lost to the Duke Blue Devils 45-21 on Saturday night at California Memorial Stadium. The Bears, now with a record of 4-2 overall and 1-1 in the ACC, started strong by scoring touchdowns on each of their first three possessions. Quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele threw a six-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jordan King, and running back Kendrick Raphael scored twice on runs of five and four yards.
Duke, which had averaged nearly 37 points over its previous three games, responded by scoring touchdowns on four consecutive drives. The Blue Devils closed the first half with a field goal to lead 31-21.
In the second half, Cal’s defense managed to stop Duke’s offense for a period by forcing punts on four straight drives and allowing only one first down during that stretch. However, Cal’s own offense was unable to capitalize or reduce the deficit.
“We have glimpses where we can play good football, but it’s too much of a roller coaster,” Travers Family Head Football Coach Justin Wilcox said. “You can’t play that way and win.”
Cal will next play North Carolina on Friday, October 17 at 7:30 p.m., with coverage available on ESPN.
For updates on Cal football, fans are encouraged to follow the team’s official accounts on X (@CalFootball, @CalFootballPR) and Instagram (@cal_football).
