Hawaii Stuns Cal with Last-Second Touchdown in Thrilling Hawaii Bowl Finish

The California Golden Bears saw their season end in stunning fashion at the Hawaii Bowl. Backup quarterback Luke Weaver connected with Nick Cenacle for a 22-yard touchdown with only 10 seconds left on the clock. The play secured a dramatic 35-31 victory for the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors on Wednesday. The loss denied Cal a chance at an eight-win season.

Hawaii Bowl

Hawaii mounted a spectacular comeback after falling behind 21-0 in the first half. The game was a rollercoaster of lead changes in the final minutes, culminating in the last-gasp winning score. According to game statistics, Cal’s offense actually set season highs in yards and first downs in the losing effort.

Bears’ Early Dominance Eclipsed by Relentless Rainbow Warrior Rally

Cal started the game with absolute control. Freshman quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele led an efficient opening drive, capping it with a 41-yard touchdown pass. Running backs Kendrick Raphael and Anthony League added rushing scores to build a commanding 21-0 lead by the second quarter.

The momentum shifted decisively before halftime. Hawaii blocked a Cal punt and kicked a field goal. That key play provided a crucial spark. Rainbow Warriors quarterback Micah Alejado then engineered a steady offensive revival throughout the second half.

Record Performances Cannot Save Cal From Crushing Defeat

Individual brilliance was not enough for the Golden Bears. Wide receiver Jacob De Jesus set a new single-season program record with his 108th catch. Sagapolutele threw for 343 yards, continuing his impressive rookie campaign. Despite these achievements, the team’s defensive collapse defined the night.

The defeat leaves Cal with a 7-6 final record. It is a disappointing conclusion for a team that held a large early lead. The loss also marks the first postseason defeat this year for an ACC team, as reported in game summaries.

The Hawaii Bowl delivered one of the most dramatic finishes of the college football postseason. Cal’s season concludes with a painful lesson in closing out games, while Hawaii celebrates a legendary comeback victory on their home field.

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How did Hawaii complete the comeback against Cal?

Hawaii quarterback Micah Alejado led multiple scoring drives after halftime. The defense made critical stops, including a key fourth-down sack. Backup Luke Weaver then threw the game-winning touchdown pass in the final seconds.

Who were the standout players in the Hawaii Bowl?

Hawaii’s Micah Alejado threw for 274 yards and three touchdowns. Receiver Pofele Ashlock had 14 catches for 123 yards and two scores. For Cal, Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele passed for 343 yards and Jacob De Jesus set a receptions record.

What records were set during the game?

Cal’s Jacob De Jesus broke the school’s single-season receptions record, finishing with 108 catches. The Bears’ offense also set season highs with 487 total yards and 31 first downs during the contest.

What does this loss mean for Cal’s season?

The loss gives Cal a 7-6 final record. It halts the team’s momentum heading into the offseason under a new head coach. The game was a missed opportunity to secure an eighth win.

Why was Hawaii’s kicker significant in this game?

Hawaii’s All-America kicker Kansei Matsuzawa had made his first 25 field goals this season. He missed a 50-yard attempt early but later made two crucial kicks that helped fuel the comeback effort.