Boston College Hosts California in ACC Showdown This Saturday

CHESTNUT HILL, Mass. — The Boston College Eagles will host the California Golden Bears on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. ET in an Atlantic Coast Conference opener for both teams. The Eagles, currently with a 1-2 record, are looking to bounce back after a 30-20 loss to Stanford on September 13. Meanwhile, the Golden Bears, holding a 3-1 record, are coming off a shocking 34-0 defeat against San Diego State.

California quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele will be a key player to watch. The 6-foot-3, 225-pound true freshman has shown remarkable ability to improvise plays when things do not go as planned. Eagles coach Bill O’Brien expressed concern about Sagapolutele’s capability to create options out of broken plays, calling him a strong passer and intelligent player.

In four games, Sagapolutele has completed 88 of 143 passes for 980 yards, with eight touchdowns and three interceptions. According to BC defensive tackle Ty Clemons, the Eagles must contain him to succeed. “Everybody has to stay in their gap and get the guy on the ground,” said Clemons.

Boston College’s defense has struggled against the run in previous games. The Eagles allowed Michigan State and Stanford to combine for 213 rushing yards. California’s ground game, led by Kendrick Raphael who has 228 rushing yards this season, will also be a point of focus for BC’s defensive unit.

On offense, Eagles quarterback Dylan Lonergan is making his fourth career start, leading the nation in completions per game. With a completion percentage of 73.2%, he ranks among the best in the nation. The Eagles have kept him protected, allowing only four sacks thus far.

This weekend’s matchup marks the first encounter between the two teams since Cal joined the ACC. Sportsbooks have listed California as a 6.5-point underdog against Boston College, indicating a challenging game ahead for the Golden Bears.

“Each play is crucial, and we need to execute well,” said O’Brien. The outcome could be pivotal for both teams as they seek to improve their standings in the conference.