WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — In an exciting clash on Friday night, Cal achieved its first victory in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) by narrowly defeating Wake Forest 46-36. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza was pivotal in the game, completing 40 of 56 passes for a total of 385 yards, along with two touchdown passes and one interception.

As a newcomer in the ACC, Cal (5-4, 1-4 ACC) ended a frustrating stretch where they lost four consecutive conference games by a mere nine points, which included close calls against Florida State and N.C. State. On the other hand, Wake Forest (4-5, 2-3) saw standout performances from Demond Claiborne, who contributed both on the ground and as a receiver, racking up 113 rushing yards and scoring one rushing touchdown along with a touchdown reception. Quarterback Hank Bachmeier threw for 274 yards and two touchdowns but faced challenges, being intercepted three times during the match.

With the contest wrapped up and just under two minutes remaining, Liam Johnson’s key interception provided Cal with a crucial advantage holding a three-point lead. Jaivian Thomas then sealed the game for the Bears with an 11-yard rushing touchdown.

Derek Morris made significant contributions with three field goals, including a standout 54-yarder, while Ryan Coe matched that distance with his own field goal for the Bears. Cal initially struck quickly, scoring 10 points in just nine seconds during the first quarter, highlighted by Morris’s field goal and a 16-yard touchdown following a recovered fumble on a kickoff.

Mendoza showcased an impressive first half, completing 30 of 40 passes for 289 yards, while Wake Forest only managed 27 offensive plays throughout that period. The Bears’ defense also made noteworthy plays, with Nohl Williams recording his seventh interception of the season by denying a touchdown in the end zone early in the second half.

In summary: Cal experienced some difficulties in the fourth quarter as they tried to maintain a previously comfortable 15-point lead. Nevertheless, they managed to make essential plays to secure the win, even while conceding over 24 points for only the second time this season. Meanwhile, Wake Forest, now 1-5 at home, struggled with mistakes, particularly in special teams, which hampered their two-game winning streak.

Looking ahead, Cal will return home to face Syracuse next Saturday, while Wake Forest will travel to North Carolina on the same day.