Hokies' Comeback Falls Short as Cal's Brousseau Shines in 25-20 Win

Key points

• Virginia Tech fell to 4-3 after losing 25-20 to Cal in Berkeley.
• The Hokies took the lead in the fourth quarter but failed to convert on the final drive.
• Cal QB Jackson Brousseau threw for 321 yards and a TD with no interceptions in his first start.
• This was the first time Cal hosted Virginia Tech, improving their all-time series record to 2-1.
• Tech's running backs had 122 yards on 24 carries, but the team struggled with penalties and turnovers.

Background

Virginia Tech started the 2026 season with a 3-0 record, including a 35-26 win at Maryland, which was their best start since 2017. However, they have since lost two consecutive games, including a 35-20 loss to Georgia Tech and this 25-20 loss to Cal. The team has faced questions about their defense and ability to close out games, with fans expressing frustration over close losses to teams they were expected to beat.

How outlets are covering it

TechSideline emphasized the Hokies' struggles with penalties, a porous secondary, and an offensive line that couldn't consistently open lanes, noting that the team 'gifted' two games to opponents they should have beaten. Virginia Tech Athletics highlighted the fourth-quarter comeback and the failure to score on the final possession, while Cal Athletics focused on Brousseau's performance and the team's defensive success, including nine tackles for loss. Fans on TechSideline's comment section were divided, with some criticizing the coaching decisions and others expressing hope that the team is building a foundation for future success.

Why it matters

This loss drops Virginia Tech to 4-3 and raises questions about their ability to compete in the ACC. The team's struggles with penalties, turnovers, and defensive consistency could impact their chances of making the ACC Championship game. Cal's win improves their record and positions them as a contender in the Pac-12, while Brousseau's performance suggests they have a viable quarterback option for the rest of the season.

What to watch

Virginia Tech will face Georgia Tech at home on October 17, followed by a trip to Clemson on October 24. Cal will host Wake Forest on October 17 and then travel to SMU on October 24. Both teams will look to bounce back from their recent losses and establish momentum for the second half of the season.