Wake Forest Dominates Cal in Berkeley Blowout
Wake Forest defeated Cal 41-7 in Berkeley after taking a 34-0 halftime lead and going ahead 41-0 before Cal scored in the fourth quarter. Wake Forest quarterback Gio Lopez threw for 267 yards and four touchdowns, including three in the first half. Cal started Jackson Brousseau, while Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele entered in the third quarter and threw a late touchdown to avoid a shutout.
No. 21 Wake Forest left Berkeley with a 41-7 win, moving to 6-1 overall and 4-1 in ACC games. Cal fell to 3-4 and 2-2 in conference play. The announced attendance was 33,797. Wake Forest led 34-0 at halftime and 41-0 before Cal scored in the fourth quarter.
Gio Lopez passed for 267 yards and four touchdowns without an interception, adding 51 rushing yards. He produced 246 passing yards and three scoring throws before halftime. Cal started Jackson Brousseau; Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele entered in the third quarter and later found Mason Mini for a 28-yard touchdown.
This result could affect fan morale and media attention around both programs, touching students, alumni, athletes, and Berkeley-area businesses tied to game weekends. Wake Forest's ranked road win may raise its national profile and recruiting visibility, while Cal's lopsided loss may increase scrutiny of its quarterback rotation and coaching choices. The broader social impact is likely limited to the sports community, though major games can briefly shape campus identity and local spending.