California has made a significant coaching change, officially parting ways with head coach Justin Wilcox. This decision follows a disappointing season, leaving the Golden Bears’ record at 6-5 after a loss to Stanford.
Coaching Change at California
Sources revealed that Wilcox’s dismissal comes on the heels of the team’s recent performance. The Golden Bears suffered a poor showing against Stanford, which included a franchise-high 13 penalties and 128 penalty yards. This marked a season where Cal faced numerous challenges.
Wilcox’s Record and Performance
- Overall record at California: 48-55
- No winning seasons since: 2019
- Six bowl appearances during tenure
Despite leading the team to bowl games in recent years, Wilcox’s tenure was marred by insufficient offensive production. After a promising 2024 season, where the Golden Bears recorded their first win against a ranked opponent since 2020, crucial players opted to transfer. This included:
- Quarterback Fernando Mendoza to Indiana
- Running back Jaydn Ott to Oklahoma
- Tight end Jack Endries to Texas
Future Prospects
As Wilcox departs, Cal analyst Nick Rolovich is set to take over as interim coach. This transition raises questions about the future direction of the program, especially as the Golden Bears navigate their second year in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
In reflecting on the team’s struggles, Wilcox expressed understanding for the frustrations of the fan base, stating, “We’re working as hard as we possibly can to play as good as we can, and we didn’t do that tonight.”
The Golden Bears will need to address their ongoing issues, particularly in close games. Under Wilcox, the team recorded a troubling 6-19 record in one-score games between 2020 and 2024.
With this coaching change, California aims to revitalize its football program and improve its competitiveness in the ACC.
