UPDATE: In a heart-stopping showdown, the University of California, Berkeley (Cal) fell to Virginia Tech 42-34 in double overtime at Lane Stadium on October 27, 2023. This loss dashes Cal’s hopes of securing bowl eligibility earlier than any season since 2006, leaving them with only four regular-season games to rebound.
With the game tied at 34, Virginia Tech’s quarterback Kyron Drones shone brightly, scoring the decisive touchdown with a 7-yard pass to Takye Heath in the second overtime. Drones, who rushed for 137 yards and threw three touchdowns, was instrumental in the Hokies’ victory, elevating their record to 3-5 overall and 2-2 in the ACC.
In a dramatic turn, Cal had initially led 20-10 at halftime, overcoming an early 10-0 deficit. However, Virginia Tech responded fiercely, scoring 17 unanswered points, pushing their lead to 27-20 before the Bears fought back to tie the game at 27 in the final minutes of regulation.
The game entered overtime after a thrilling sequence that saw both teams exchange scores. Cal’s Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele connected with tight end Mason Mini for a 25-yard touchdown, only to see Virginia Tech answer back with a swift 17-yard rushing touchdown by Drones.
“We had our chances, but we just couldn’t finish,” said Cal head coach Justin Wilcox.
As the game progressed, Cal’s defense struggled against the Hokies’ rushing attack, yielding 357 yards on the ground, while the Bears managed a mere 39 yards. Despite a commendable performance from linebacker Cade Uluave, who tallied 19 tackles, Cal’s defense could not contain Virginia Tech’s offensive surge.
In the nail-biting final minutes of the fourth quarter, Cal faced a do-or-die situation after Drones’ rushing touchdown gave Tech a late lead. With only seconds left on the clock, Cal’s Chase Meyer attempted a career-long 49-yard field goal, which sent the game into overtime after hitting the goalpost.
Looking ahead, Cal, now at 5-3 and 2-2 in the ACC, must regroup quickly as they prepare for a challenging matchup against No. 16 Virginia next Saturday. This game marks a critical juncture in their season as they aim for bowl eligibility amid a tough schedule.
The Hokies, following a rocky start to their season that included the firing of their head coach, have regained momentum with this pivotal victory. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can build on this success in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for the latest updates as both teams navigate their respective paths moving forward.
