Cal's Future Foes: Stanford Wins, UNLV Falls in Season Openers

Stanford rallied from a fourth-quarter deficit to beat Hawaii 37-27, with quarterback Davis Warren throwing for 310 yards and running back Micah Ford scoring three touchdowns. UNLV lost at home to Memphis 27-21 despite a strong game from quarterback Jackson Arnold, who threw for 291 yards and two scores. Both teams are on Cal's 2026 schedule, with Stanford hosting the Golden Bears in November and UNLV welcoming them in October.

Stanford's comeback showcased late-game composure, as Warren completed all five passes on the decisive fourth-quarter drive after Hawaii briefly seized a 27-23 lead. Ford's three rushing touchdowns and Tafiti's defensive score sealed the win. UNLV's collapse was more troubling, as the Rebels managed just 66 passing yards over their final six possessions after leading 21-14, with a missed short field goal before halftime proving costly.

Virginia's 34-8 rout of NC State featured Pribula's efficient passing and 110 rushing yards, while the Cavaliers' defense held the Wolfpack to 168 total yards. All four teams appear on Cal's 2026 slate, with the Golden Bears opening their season Saturday against UCLA before facing UNLV in October, Virginia in November, and Stanford later that month.