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California Golden Bears Stats, Roster, Picks & More
Betting on the California Golden Bears this season? You’re in the right spot. Whether you’re scouting early lines, digging into player props, or just looking for smart angles on Cal matchups, this guide breaks down everything bettors need to know.
We’ll cover the team’s history, 2024 performance, key roster moves, injury impact, and—most importantly—how those details translate into profitable bets.
With a revamped roster and a new conference challenge in the ACC, Cal brings both risk and reward to the table in 2025. Let’s break it all down so you can stay sharp and cash more tickets this season.
Picks and Predictions for the Golden Bears
Start the season off with a bang with these picks for the Golden Bears. Our team of handicappers has put together the hottest predictions for the Golden Bears:
If you want to see more picks for NCAAF, be sure to sign up at ScoresandStats. For just $9 per month, you can get picks from dozens of handicappers as well as consensus betting data and more.
California Golden Bears History
The California Golden Bears football program, representing the University of California, Berkeley, boasts a rich history dating back to its inception in 1886. Over the years, the team has experienced periods of both triumph and challenge, contributing significantly to the college football landscape. Notably, the Golden Bears have produced several NFL talents and have been part of some of the most memorable moments in college football history.
Throughout the 20th century, the Golden Bears achieved considerable success, including multiple conference championships and Rose Bowl appearances. The team’s commitment to excellence on the field has been matched by its dedication to academic achievement, reflecting the university’s overall mission. This balance has helped maintain the program’s reputation as one of integrity and competitiveness. Craving expert game breakdowns? Dive into our NCAAF previews for all the play-by-play.
In recent years, the Golden Bears have navigated the evolving landscape of college football, including conference realignments and the increasing prominence of the transfer portal. The program’s adaptability and resilience continue to be key factors in its ongoing pursuit of success both on and off the field.
California Golden Bears Timeline
- 1886: California Golden Bears football program is established.
- 1920: Team wins its first national championship.
- 1921: Golden Bears secure back-to-back national championships.
- 1937: Team claims its third national championship.
- 1958: Last Rose Bowl appearance to date.
- 2002: Jeff Tedford is hired as head coach, initiating a period of revitalization.
- 2004: Team finishes the season ranked No. 9 nationally.
- 2010: California Memorial Stadium undergoes major renovations.
- 2017: Justin Wilcox is appointed head coach.
- 2020: Season impacted by COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a shortened schedule.
- 2024: Golden Bears transition from the Pac-12 to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
- 2025: Ron Rivera returns to Cal as the football program’s general manager.
California Golden Bears Stats
In their first year as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), the California Golden Bears wrapped up the 2024 season with a 6–7 overall record and a 2–6 mark in conference play. Offensively, the Bears found some rhythm, averaging 391.2 total yards per game, split between 225.5 yards through the air and 165.7 yards on the ground. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza completed over 70% of his passes during the early stretch of the season, showing promise and poise in the pocket. Running back Jaivian Thomas emerged as a breakout star in the backfield, racking up 626 rushing yards and seven touchdowns while averaging an impressive 6.3 yards per carry.
Defensively, Cal allowed 363.2 yards per game, performing better against the pass than the run. The unit made up for some inconsistency with big-play ability, especially in the turnover department. At one point, the Bears led the nation in interceptions, highlighted by a dominant start from cornerback Nohl Williams, who recorded four picks in the first three games. Linebacker Teddye Buchanan was a tackling machine, finishing the year with 114 tackles and 12 tackles for loss. Safety Craig Woodson also played a key role, contributing two interceptions and seven pass breakups to stabilize the secondary. Overall, while Cal had trouble putting together complete games against ACC competition, the numbers show a team capable of competing when execution is clean on both sides of the ball. Want a full roster deep-dive? Visit our NCAAF team hub for stats, depth charts, and insider intel.
California Golden Bears Roster for 2025
The 2025 California Golden Bears roster features a strong influx of transfer talent and returning contributors, all looking to push the program forward after a transitional year. One of the biggest storylines heading into the season is the quarterback competition. Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, a five-star recruit from Hawaii who initially committed to Oregon, transferred to Cal and brings high expectations with him. He’ll battle with Devin Brown, a former Ohio State quarterback who joins the Bears with valuable experience in a Power Five environment. Either player could elevate the offense, and their performance will be closely watched by bettors eyeing passing props.
On the defensive side, the Bears added depth and talent through the transfer portal as well. Tyson Ford, a defensive lineman from Notre Dame, is expected to help solidify the trenches, while cornerback Jaden Mickey—also from Notre Dame—will play a crucial role in the secondary following the departure of key defensive backs. In the backfield, the addition of NC State transfer Kendrick Raphael adds explosiveness to the running game and helps replace the production lost from injuries in 2024. These transfers, paired with core returners from last season’s roster, set Cal up for a more competitive year. The Bears may still be rebuilding, but the foundation is starting to solidify—and for sharp bettors, this roster presents weekly opportunities in both team totals and individual props. check out our latest college football picks and ride the winners.
California Golden Bears Injury Report
The 2024 season saw key players sidelined due to injuries, impacting team performance. Running back Jaydn Ott suffered an ankle injury early in the season, limiting his effectiveness and contributing to the team’s offensive challenges. Additionally, injuries in the secondary affected defensive consistency throughout the year. Upgrade to pro-level insights—lock in our premium picks today and tip the scales in your favor.
Before you start betting this season, be sure to check out the official injury report:
California Golden Bears Betting Outlook and Trends
As the Golden Bears head into the 2025 season, bettors should be paying close attention to how the program’s changes may impact betting markets. With a new quarterback battle, heavy use of the transfer portal, and adjustments to life in the ACC, several trends are worth monitoring for profit potential.
Transitioning Offense
With two talented quarterbacks competing for the starting job, expect early inconsistency in the passing game as the offense adapts to whoever wins the job. Cal may lean more on its ground game and play-calling conservatism in the first few weeks, which could lead to lower-scoring starts. Bettors should look for value on early season unders, especially when the Golden Bears face strong defensive teams.
Defensive Adjustments
The Bears lost several key defenders, particularly in the secondary, and while they brought in talent through transfers, chemistry and communication could take time to develop. In the first half of the season, this could result in giving up big plays and struggling to close out tight games. Bettors might consider looking at opponent team totals and overs in matchups where Cal faces explosive passing offenses.
Special Teams Impact
With a revamped special teams unit and new personnel at kicker and returner, this area could become a wild card in both positive and negative ways. An improved return game or costly mistakes in coverage could swing close spreads or totals. Bettors willing to dig into game previews and special teams performance each week may find undervalued lines, especially in matchups projected to be close.
Betting Trends from Last Season
Reflecting on the 2024 season, several betting trends emerged:
- Strong Starts: The Golden Bears often started games strong, covering first-half spreads in multiple matchups.
- Turnover Margin: Early in the season, the defense excelled in creating turnovers, contributing to covers against the spread.
- Inconsistent Scoring: Offensive inconsistency led to several games hitting the under, especially against formidable defenses.
Key Players for Betting on the California Golden Bears
If you’re interested in betting player props, here are the top five players to watch out for in the 2025 season:
Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele (QB)
A five-star recruit out of Hawaii, Sagapolutele arrives at Cal with big expectations and a cannon for an arm. He’s known for his quick release and deep ball accuracy, which could open up explosive play opportunities if he wins the starting job. Bettors should monitor his development closely in the early part of the season—especially if he faces soft secondaries, as he could quickly rack up passing yards.
Player props on completions, passing yards, and long passing TDs could offer value depending on matchups. If he doesn’t win the starting job outright, he’s still worth tracking for in-season prop opportunities when given playing time.
Devin Brown (QB)
Brown, a former Ohio State quarterback, brings high-level pedigree and experience to the Golden Bears quarterback room. If he earns the starting nod, he offers more stability and polish than Sagapolutele, which could bode well for Cal’s passing attack in higher-paced games. He’s mobile enough to add value with his legs, making him a dual-threat option for anytime touchdown scorer props in red zone situations.
Bettors should watch team news closely—if Brown starts, he could be a consistent over target for short-yardage TD and pass attempts props. His performance will likely be more consistent than explosive, making him ideal for bettors who prefer predictable volume.
Tyson Ford (DL)
Ford is a disruptive defensive lineman who transferred from Notre Dame to bring size and explosiveness to Cal’s front seven. He excels at getting into the backfield and could rack up sacks and tackles for loss if the defensive scheme frees him up to attack.
Bettors should consider Ford’s impact on sack props, especially in games where Cal faces weaker offensive lines. He can also affect total points scored if his pressure leads to turnovers or short fields for Cal’s offense. Defensive performance props, including team sacks and first turnover markets, are where Ford could indirectly offer value.
Jaden Mickey (CB)
Mickey is another former Notre Dame product who gives Cal a physical and agile presence in the secondary. He has a nose for the ball and isn’t afraid to challenge receivers on deep routes, which could lead to pass breakups and interceptions.
For bettors, Mickey is worth watching in matchups against pass-heavy teams, where his ability to force turnovers could shift game momentum. Look for player interception props or Cal defensive/special teams TD props in games where he’s likely to be targeted. He’s also a good indicator for betting the under if he can shut down an opponent’s top receiver.
Kendrick Raphael (RB)
Raphael brings explosive speed and vision to the backfield after transferring from NC State, where he showed flashes of big-play ability. He’s a strong candidate to lead the team in rushing if he stays healthy and earns a significant share of carries. Bettors should monitor his rushing attempts and yardage trends—if he gets 15+ touches, overs on rushing yards and anytime TD props are likely to hold value.
He’s also a threat in the screen game, making him a sneaky pick for combined yardage props or receiving yards in matchups with aggressive pass rushes. In games where Cal controls the tempo, Raphael could be a workhorse and prime prop betting target.
California Golden Bears Summary
The California Golden Bears enter the 2025 season with a mix of uncertainty and potential. Roster changes, including key transfers and departures, present both challenges and opportunities. For bettors, this transitional phase requires careful analysis and adaptability. Track the hottest handicappers live on our leaderboard.
To stay ahead of the curve, consider leveraging expert insights and picks. Services like ScoresandStats.com offer comprehensive analysis and handicapper selections to enhance your betting strategy. Stay informed, bet smart, and embrace the excitement of college football betting with the California Golden Bears.
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