News Summary
San Diego State University showcased a remarkable performance by defeating the University of California, Berkeley, 34-0 in a nonconference football game. This win improves SDSU’s record to 2-1 while Cal, now at 3-1, faces challenges in securing a bowl berth. Key plays included a fumble return touchdown and an interception return for a touchdown. The event celebrated SDSU’s sports achievements with festivities, including a River Block Party and recognition of sports legends, further engaging fans and enhancing the game day experience.
San Diego – San Diego State University (SDSU) delivered a commanding performance against the University of California, Berkeley (Cal), shutting them out with a score of 34-0 during a nonconference football matchup on Saturday night. The game was broadcast live on CBS Sports Network and featured various promotions and fan engagement activities organized by SDSU.
With this victory, SDSU improved its record to 2-1, while Cal suffered its first loss of the season, falling to 3-1 overall. The outcome significantly impacts Cal’s chances of securing a bowl berth, reducing their probability to approximately 55%. Notably, this marks Cal’s first shutout since 2019 and extends their winless streak against SDSU on the road to 0-5.
Both teams entered the matchup with high hopes, especially Cal, which had entered the contest favored by two touchdowns. However, Cal’s performance fell short, as their quarterback, Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, struggled throughout the game, throwing two interceptions and being sacked three times. In contrast, SDSU’s quarterback Jayden Denegal completed 15 of 18 passes for 189 yards and one touchdown, achieving an impressive passer rating of 189.9.
Key plays during the game included a failed fourth-down conversion by Cal at the SDSU 2-yard line, an 80-yard pass completion from Denegal to Jordan Napier that led to SDSU’s first touchdown, and a critical 35-yard fumble return for a touchdown by Dwayne McDougle. Additionally, Chris Johnson secured a 97-yard interception return for another touchdown, further solidifying SDSU’s dominance. Cal totaled only 65 rushing yards at an average of 2.1 yards per carry, and the three turnovers proved detrimental to their success.
Outside of the football field, the weekend also celebrated SDSU’s sports achievements, as it coincided with the Day of Champions event, commemorating their 2015 Mountain West football championship team. The event started with a River Block Party at 2:30 p.m., featuring a Beach Bash theme, a live sand sculpture artist, a DJ, calypso band performances, and activities suited for all ages. Engaging fans, the block party included a Kids Zone with games, food, beverage options, and big screen televisions.
As part of the honor for the night, SDSU recognized their all-time leading rusher Donnel Pumphrey and former head coach Rocky Long. Pumphrey boasts an NCAA FBS record of 6,405 rushing yards, while Long is celebrated as the all-time winningest coach in Mountain West history, retiring with an 81-38 record. Attendees also enjoyed a halftime event hosted by DJ D-Rock in the North concourse and participated in an autograph session with several championship teams, including the 2015 football team and the women’s basketball team.
Students with tickets had an added incentive as the first 1,000 would receive free SDSU sunglasses. The event culminated with the traditional Warrior Walk at 5:15 p.m., inviting fans to cheer on the Aztecs as they entered Snapdragon Stadium.
Looking ahead, Cal will aim to regroup before facing Boston College on September 27th after this disappointing performance against SDSU, while SDSU will carry the momentum from this commanding win into their next matchup.
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Additional Resources
- NBC San Diego
- Cal Bears Official Site
- Write for California
- Sports Illustrated
- Wikipedia: San Diego State Aztecs football
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
