Cal opens the season with a win, rolling past Oregon State 34-15 on the road as true freshman quarterback Sagapolutele shines in his collegiate debut
Cal wasted no time setting the tone in Reser Stadium, jumping out to a wire-to-wire lead as Oregon State stayed within reach but never quite caught up. Sagapolutele, making history as the first Cal quarterback to start a season-opener as a true freshman since Jared Goff in 2013, got off to a stunning start. He connected on his first nine pass attempts, two of which went for touchdowns, helping the Bears race out to a 14-0 lead early in the first quarter.
The rookie signal-caller finished the day 20-for-30 through the air for 234 yards and was a central playmaker throughout Cal’s offense. Cal’s defense also did its part, converting two OSU turnovers into 10 points and keeping the Beavers from sustaining sustained drives. A Cal linebacker totaled 10 tackles, providing a solid floor for the young quarterback to operate behind.
Sagapolutele’s most notable moments included a pair of touchdown passes to a tight end, the first coming on a 19-yard strike that gave Cal an early cushion, and a second 4-yard scoring pass to the same target later in the game. In addition, Grizzell contributed with a 32-yard scoring catch during Cal’s scoring sequence in the second half, helping to extend the Bears’ lead.
After the game, Travers Family Head Football Coach praised Sagapolutele’s accuracy and poise, noting that the true freshman has a lot to learn but showed exactly what Cal coaches expect from him in practice: calm, confident execution and trust in the system. The coach also acknowledged the team’s energy on the sideline, calling it a fun environment and a good sign of the roster’s growing chemistry.
The Bears will stay on the road to host Texas Southern next Saturday at 3:00 p.m. PT, a home opener that will be carried on ACC Network Extra. Cal’s performance against Oregon State provides a positive kickoff takeaway: the offense has a young quarterback capable of generating points, and the defense demonstrated discipline and playmaking ability when it counted.
Additional context and value for readers
– This season-opening win gives Cal early momentum as Sagapolutele gains valuable experience and confidence in a high-pressure road environment.
– The combination of Sagapolutele’s early rhythm and the receiving corps’ ability to connect on multiple targets should give Cal, and its coaching staff, a clearer path to building a versatile game plan for upcoming opponents.
– Texas Southern presents an opportunity for Cal to refine game tempo and chemistry with minimal external pressure, while still requiring focus to avoid any letdown after a competitive conference opener.
Summary: Cal’s 34-15 victory at Oregon State showcased Sagapolutele’s potential as a dynamic leader for the Bears, a capable supporting cast, and a defense that forced turnovers at key moments. The team now shifts focus to a home showdown with Texas Southern, aiming to build on the early-season momentum and continue developing the young quarterback’s progression. A hopeful note for Cal fans: the foundation looks solid, with room to grow as the season progresses.