Cal Defeats Auburn 21-14 in Thrilling Road Victory

Eric Boggs September 8, 2024

The California Golden Bears (2-0) edged out the Auburn Tigers (1-1) in a thrilling 21-14 victory at Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday. This marked Cal’s first trip to Auburn, where they secured their second-ever road win over an SEC opponent, with their last SEC triumph coming against Ole Miss in 2019.

YOU ALREADY KNOW #GoBears | #ALLIN pic.twitter.com/Vg1deMsBLf
— Cal Football (@CalFootball) September 7, 2024

Cal’s defense was the story of the game, forcing five Auburn turnovers, including four interceptions from Auburn quarterback Payton Thorne. The Bears capitalized on these mistakes, scoring 14 points off turnovers. Meanwhile, Cal quarterback Fernando Mendoza led the offense with 233 passing yards and two touchdowns, going 25-for-36 on the day.

The Golden Bears tied the game 7-7 in the first quarter with a 19-yard touchdown pass from Mendoza to Nyziah Hunter. Cal then seized momentum when cornerback Nohl Williams intercepted a deflected pass, setting up another Mendoza-to-Hunter connection to put the Bears up 14-7 in the second quarter.

Despite Auburn’s early 7-0 lead and a late comeback attempt, Cal’s defense held firm. Linebacker Teddye Buchanan had a standout performance with 11 tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble, which set up Cal’s third touchdown—a 32-yard run by Jaivian Thomas in the fourth quarter.

NOHL!! WILLIAMS!!

Second INT of the day for @NohlWilliams #GoBears | #ALLIN pic.twitter.com/krupspm2Yt
— Cal Football (@CalFootball) September 7, 2024

Auburn’s offense, which had dominated Alabama A&M a week prior, struggled mightily against Cal, gaining just 286 total yards. Thorne’s four interceptions, combined with a fumble from running back Jarquez Hunter, kept Auburn from finding any offensive rhythm after their opening drive.

Thorne’s second-half struggles were capped off by two late interceptions that thwarted Auburn’s comeback hopes. Cal’s defense sealed the victory with Williams’ second interception of the game in the final minutes, ensuring the Bears’ 21-14 win.

With this victory, Cal improved to 2-0 and looks ahead to next week’s home game against San Diego State. Auburn, now 1-1, will aim to bounce back when they face New Mexico next Saturday.