Cal is actively pursuing Tosh Lupoi, Oregon’s defensive coordinator, for its head coach position. Sources indicate that Lupoi has emerged as the top candidate for the role.
Tosh Lupoi: A Strong Contender for Cal’s Head Coach Role
This potential appointment marks a significant opportunity for Lupoi, a Bay Area native. He played at the University of California, Berkeley (Cal) from 2000 to 2005 and later served as the defensive line coach for three years.
Coaching Background and Achievements
Lupoi has an impressive coaching resume, having worked at prominent programs such as:
- University of Washington
- University of Alabama
- University of Oregon since 2022
In addition to college football, he has held positions in the NFL with teams like the:
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Cleveland Browns
- Atlanta Falcons
This season, Oregon’s defense ranks fifth nationally in yards allowed per play, underscoring Lupoi’s effectiveness as a coach.
Recruiting and Relationships
Lupoi is also recognized as one of the top recruiters in the nation, particularly on the West Coast. His recruiting prowess could be vital for Cal as they aim to secure talents like freshman quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. Sagapolutele has a history with Lupoi; he initially committed to Oregon before switching back to Cal.
Recent Changes at Cal
Cal’s search for a new head coach follows the firing of Justin Wilcox, which occurred shortly after a disappointing 31-10 loss to Stanford. The Golden Bears, now coached by interim head coach Nick Rolovich, achieved a notable victory over SMU, knocking them out of contention for the ACC championship.
With Ron Rivera serving as the general manager, the program is looking to rejuvenate under a leader like Lupoi. His connection to Cal runs deep, as his father, John Lupoi, previously served as a grad assistant on the Cal staff.
A Potential New Era for Cal Football
If hired, Lupoi would become the third assistant from Dan Lanning’s Oregon staff to accept a head coaching position at a Power 4 school. This trend indicates a growing recognition of the talent and potential among Lanning’s coaching personnel.
As Cal looks to the future, securing a coach like Tosh Lupoi might not only strengthen the program but also revitalizes its recruitment efforts and competitive spirit.
