The upcoming showdown between the California Bears and Stanford Cardinal marks the 128th Big Game in their longstanding rivalry. Scheduled for Saturday afternoon at 4:30 PM PT, this pivotal match will take place at Stanford Stadium in Stanford, California. Fans can catch the live action on the ACC Network.
Rivalry Overview and Significance
This matchup is steeped in history, tracing back to its inception in 1892. This makes it the sixth-longest active rivalry in college football and the second-longest in the Western United States. The series has often been closely contested, with 56 games decided by a touchdown or less, highlighting the intensity of this storied rivalry.
Recent Performance and Stakes
- The Bears enter the game with a record of 6-4 overall and 3-3 in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
- Stanford struggles with a 3-7 record and a 2-5 mark in conference play.
- California has won the last four meetings between the schools, including a thrilling 24-21 victory in 2024, where they overcame a 14-point deficit to retain The Axe trophy.
- Cal is seeking its seventh win of the season and hopes to become bowl eligible for the third consecutive year, a milestone not achieved since 2003-2009.
Key Players to Watch
California Bears
- Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele: The freshman quarterback stands out as a notable player, having passed for over 200 yards in every game this season.
- Kendrick Raphael: Leading the offensive charge with 12 total touchdowns, he aims to add to his impressive performance in recent games.
- Jacob De Jesus: A strong receiver, he has already recorded a career-high 73 receptions this season, making him one of the most productive players in the conference.
Stanford Cardinal
Although Stanford faces challenges this season, they are keen on capitalizing on their home-field advantage. The team’s performance in the rivalry will be critical for morale and future recruitment. A win could spark a turnaround for the program moving forward.
Broadcast Information
Fans looking to tune in can watch the game live on the ACC Network. Chris Cotter will handle play-by-play duties, supported by analyst Max Browne and sideline reporter Kendra Douglas. For radio coverage, listeners can switch to 810 AM with Justin Allegri providing updates, alongside Mike Pawlawski and Ben Ross.
Looking Ahead
The 128th Big Game not only represents a crucial chapter in the rivalry but also serves as a defining moment for both teams’ 2025 seasons. As both squads prepare for this intense battle, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be another unforgettable clash.
