California’s Golden Bears secured a 21-14 road victory against Auburn on Saturday, thanks to a strong performance by quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Mendoza threw for 233 yards and two touchdowns, with redshirt freshman Nyziah Hunter catching both scoring passes. The win marked California’s first cross-country trip of the season, setting a positive tone for the upcoming games.
Mendoza’s impressive passing game was complemented by a strong defensive effort as Cal forced five turnovers from Auburn, including four interceptions thrown by Tigers’ quarterback Payton Thorne. Head coach Justin Wilcox praised his team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of executing plays and building confidence through hard work.
The victory was a significant turnaround for Cal, who had struggled with turnovers in the past but have not committed any so far this season. The team’s solid defense combined with Mendoza’s leadership on offense proved to be a winning formula against a tough opponent like Auburn.
Looking ahead, California will host San Diego State next, while Auburn will face off against New Mexico. Cal’s success against SEC teams in recent years highlights their competitive edge, while Auburn will need to regroup and work on improving their performance against ACC opponents.
Overall, the Golden Bears’ win against Auburn showcased their determination and ability to overcome challenges, setting the stage for an exciting and promising season ahead.
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