In a triumphant display of skill and determination, the California Golden Bears celebrated a resounding 33-7 victory over UCLA at the iconic Rose Bowl on Saturday night. Thousands of devoted Cal fans, who had invested their gas money to support the team, reveled in the moment, extending their festivities well beyond the final whistle.
The win not only marked Cal's first bowl eligibility since 2019 but also concluded the regular season with an impressive three-game winning streak. The jubilant scenes in the stands, with fans dancing alongside players, coaches, and staff, showcased the unbridled joy of Bear Nation.
Outside linebacker David Reese, a pivotal force in Cal's suffocating defensive performance with three sacks, expressed his gratitude, saying, "I'm just glad they didn't waste their gas. I was happy we were able to come out and perform and get a win for Bear Nation."
The victory propelled Cal to a final regular season record of 6-6 (4-5 Pac-12), setting the stage for a bowl game to be determined. The Bears exhibited resilience and tenacity, forcing four turnovers and shutting out the Bruins in the second half.
Travers Family Coach Justin Wilcox commended his team's grit, stating,
"The guys played with guts. I just have so much respect for the guys in that locker room - finishing the season the way we have. I have a lot of pride seeing those guys enjoy the moment."
Key contributors to the win included wide receiver Jeremiah Hunter, who caught eight passes for 101 yards and two touchdowns, and inside linebacker Cade Uluave, with an impressive stat line of 12 tackles, a sack, and an interception.
Kicker Mateen Bhaghani played a crucial role, nailing a career-best three field goals, including two in the first quarter that gave the Bears an early 6-0 lead. Cal's response to UCLA's touchdown, with Jaydn Ott returning the ensuing kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown, showcased the team's resilience and determination.
Hunter's first touchdown catch just before halftime secured a 20-7 lead, and the Bears continued to dominate in the second half, securing the decisive victory.
Coach Wilcox emphasized the significance of the moment, stating,
"I want them to soak it up. I want them to be with their brothers. There's nothing like that. That's why a lot of us coach - you can't find that anywhere else."
With anticipation building, the Bears are set to discover their bowl bid on Sunday, December 3, marking the next chapter in their impressive season.
