Cal and Hawaii Set for Historic Hawaii Bowl Showdown on Christmas Eve

The California Golden Bears face the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors in the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl. The game kicks off on Christmas Eve at 5 p.m. PT. It will be televised nationally on ESPN from Honolulu.

This marks the first-ever postseason meeting between these two programs. The matchup is rich with history due to deep coaching connections. It promises an entertaining cap to the college football bowl season.

Coaching Reunion Headlines Unique Bowl Storyline

The game’s central narrative involves the two head coaches. Cal’s interim coach Nick Rolovich and Hawaii’s head coach Timmy Chang were teammates. They both played quarterback at the University of Hawaii under coach June Jones.

That shared experience makes this a unique reunion. Both men were standout passers in the famous run-and-shoot offense. Now they lead opposing teams in a meaningful bowl game.

Rolovich took over as Cal’s interim coach late in the season. He led the Golden Bears to a win over SMU in his debut. The team finished with a 7-5 record to earn this bowl bid.

Chang has guided Hawaii to an 8-4 record this year. He aims to win the Hawaii Bowl for the sixth time in program history. This game is a significant homecoming for both coaches.

Teams Seek Momentum Heading Into Offseason

California seeks to end a season of transition on a high note. A bowl victory would provide positive momentum after a coaching change. It would give the program confidence heading into a new era.

The Golden Bears have shown resilience to reach seven wins. They will rely on their roster to overcome the unusual circumstances. A win over Hawaii would be a strong finish.

Hawaii wants to capitalize on its home-field advantage. The Rainbow Warriors have been successful in this specific bowl game before. Another win would solidify a successful season for Coach Chang.

Hawaii’s offense averaged 28.5 points per game this season. They will test Cal’s defense in the tropical climate. The Warriors are familiar with the conditions at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex.

Hawaii Bowl Offers Holiday Entertainment for Fans

The Christmas Eve scheduling provides holiday entertainment for football fans. The Hawaii Bowl has a long tradition of games played on December 24th. It offers a festive option for viewers across the country.

For local fans in Honolulu, it’s a chance to see a premier matchup. The game features a Power 4 conference team against a strong Mountain West opponent. It highlights the growth of college football in the Pacific region.

The result will impact both programs’ perceptions heading into the offseason. A win provides a boost for recruiting and morale. A loss sends the team into winter workouts with a sour taste.

This Hawaii Bowl clash between Cal and Hawaii is more than a simple postseason game. It is a celebration of shared history and competitive spirit. The Christmas Eve winner will secure valuable momentum for the future.

A quick knowledge drop for you:

When is the Hawaii Bowl and how can I watch?

The Sheraton Hawaii Bowl is on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. Pacific Time. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN.

What is the record for both teams this season?

The California Golden Bears finished the regular season with a 7-5 record. The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors finished their season with an 8-4 record. Both teams earned their bowl invitations through strong performances.

Why is the coaching storyline so significant?

Both head coaches, Nick Rolovich and Timmy Chang, were star quarterbacks at Hawaii. They played together under legendary coach June Jones. Their reunion as opposing coaches adds a deeply personal layer to the game.

How many times has Hawaii won the Hawaii Bowl?

The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors have won the Hawaii Bowl five times previously. They are seeking their sixth title in this game. A victory would add to their strong history in this specific postseason event.

Where is the Hawaii Bowl played?

The game is played at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex in Honolulu, Hawaii. This stadium is the home field for the University of Hawaii football team. It provides a distinct home-field advantage for the Rainbow Warriors.