Fernando Mendoza led California to a 21-14 road victory against Auburn by throwing for 233 yards and two touchdowns. Nyziah Hunter caught both first-half touchdowns for Cal. Auburn scored first with a touchdown pass from Payton Thorne to KeAndre Lambert-Smith but struggled offensively, committing five turnovers compared to Cal’s none.
Thorne threw four interceptions, one leading to Cal’s go-ahead touchdown. Jaivian Thomas later scored a 32-yard touchdown for Cal after a fumble by Auburn’s Jarquez Hunter. Despite Auburn cutting the lead in half with a rushing touchdown, two late interceptions from Thorne secured the win for the Golden Bears.
In the game, Mendoza showed control of Cal’s passing attack but left the game with a leg injury. Auburn, after a big win against Alabama A&M, struggled against Cal. Head coach Hugh Freeze expressed concerns about the team, especially in the secondary and Thorne’s passing against stronger opponents.
Cal will face San Diego State next, while Auburn will host New Mexico for their upcoming games.