Virginia Tech Edges Cal 42-34 in Thrilling Double Overtime Clash
Cal’s aspirations for early bowl eligibility faced a significant setback on October 27, 2023, as they fell to Virginia Tech 42-34 in a gripping double-overtime match at Lane Stadium. This loss denied Cal the chance to achieve bowl eligibility earlier than any year since 2006, leaving them with a record of 5-3 and 2-2 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
The game unfolded dramatically in the overtime periods. In the first overtime, Cal scored immediately when quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele connected with tight end Mason Mini for a 25-yard touchdown pass. Virginia Tech responded swiftly, with quarterback Kyron Drones rushing for a 17-yard touchdown on their next possession, leveling the score at 34-34.
In the second overtime, the Hokies took the initiative. Drones threw a 7-yard touchdown pass to Takye Heath, marking his third touchdown pass of the night. Following a successful two-point conversion, Drones extended Virginia Tech’s lead to 42-34. Cal’s final possession ended in disappointment as Sagapolutele threw four consecutive incompletions, sealing the Bears’ fate.
Virginia Tech, now with a record of 3-5 and also 2-2 in the ACC, showcased a powerful rushing attack, accumulating 357 yards on the ground, while Cal struggled, recording only 39 rushing yards. Drones proved to be a dual-threat, rushing for 137 yards and two touchdowns in addition to his three touchdown passes. Sagapolutele had a solid performance with 285 passing yards, completing 24 of 39 attempts without any turnovers. Notably, linebacker Cade Uluave led Cal’s defense with an impressive 19 tackles, including three tackles for loss and two sacks.
The game began poorly for Cal, as they fell behind 10-0 early. However, they managed to turn the tide, leading 20-10 at halftime. The Bears capitalized on a series of successful drives, including a touchdown run by running back Kendrick Raphael, who finished the game with three touchdowns. Following a defensive stand, Cal regained momentum and tied the game at 27-all late in the fourth quarter.
As the fourth quarter progressed, Virginia Tech appeared to regain control, with Drones scoring on a 14-yard run to give the Hokies a 27-20 advantage. Yet, Cal fought back, with Sagapolutele finding his rhythm and leading a drive that culminated in Raphael’s game-tying touchdown.
In a tense final minute, Virginia Tech’s kicker John Love, one of the nation’s best, missed a 45-yard field goal attempt that hit the upright. Cal’s kicker Chase Meyer then attempted a career-long 49-yard kick as time expired, forcing the game into overtime.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams battling for supremacy. Virginia Tech’s victory now sets the stage for a challenging end to the season for Cal, who will now face a series of tough opponents, starting with a home game against No. 16 Virginia.
As the Bears regroup and prepare for their next challenge, the loss serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of college football and the thin margins that can define a season.
