Wayne Knight led UCLA to a 45-24 victory over California, scoring two fourth-quarter touchdowns after interceptions by Ta’Shawn James. This game marked the start of the Bob Chesney era for UCLA, who capitalized on late mistakes by Cal’s quarterback, Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. Knight, a transfer from James Madison, scored on runs of 31 and 4 yards, while Anthony Woods sealed the win with a 53-yard touchdown run. Despite Sagapolutele’s 271 passing yards and two touchdowns, his three turnovers proved costly. The game was significant as it was the first meeting since UCLA’s move to the Big Ten and Cal’s to the ACC, following a realignment that has intensified the rivalry. UCLA’s offense showed promise under new leadership, while Cal struggled in the fourth quarter despite a strong start.
QUESTION: How might the realignment of college football conferences impact the traditional rivalries and the future of college sports?
UCLA opens Bob Chesney era with a 45-24 win over former Pac-12 rival California
