California Golden Bears defeat Virginia Tech 25-20

college football ACC football California Golden Bears Virginia Tech Hokies comeback victory

The California Golden Bears secured a 25-20 comeback victory against the Virginia Tech Hokies at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley. Despite playing without starting quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele due to a concussion, Cal utilized backup Jackson Brousseau, who threw for 321 yards and one touchdown in his first start.

Virginia Tech held the lead for much of the game, including a late fourth-quarter touchdown run by Ethan Grunkemeyer that put the Hokies ahead 20-19 with approximately one minute remaining. However, Cal responded with a rapid 75-yard drive, capped by a 2-yard touchdown run from reserve running back Ashten Emory with only 18 seconds left on the clock.

Ashten Emory finished the game with 46 rushing yards on 19 carries and two touchdowns. For the Hokies, Ethan Grunkemeyer completed 21 of 31 passes for 288 yards. The loss marks Virginia Tech’s second consecutive defeat, bringing their record to 4-2 (1-2 in the ACC), while Cal improved to 3-3 (2-1 in the ACC).