Stanford Cardinal vs. California Golden Bears Pick & Prediction NOVEMBER 23rd 2024

Preview and Prediction

When the Atlantic Coast Conference's Big Game takes place on Saturday afternoon in Berkeley, Calif., California has more than just pride on the line.

After suffering a 33-25 defeat at home to Syracuse, Cal (5-5, 1-5 ACC) is still one win away from securing a spot in a bowl game. Their regular season will come to a close next Saturday against No. 13 SMU.

Meanwhile, Stanford (3-7, 2-5) has already accepted that they will not be playing in the postseason for the sixth consecutive year. However, they did manage to pull off a surprising 38-35 victory over then-No. 19 Louisville last week. Their final game of the regular season will be a non-conference matchup against San Jose State next Friday.

Cal is hoping to utilize their star running back, Jaydn Ott, in a similar way to last year's Big Game where he dominated with 166 rushing yards in their 27-15 road win. However, Ott has not been able to replicate those numbers this season after suffering a sprained ankle in their season opener against UC Davis. His highest rushing total this year was 78 yards, which he achieved last week against Syracuse.

Ott is not the only player coming off a standout performance. Stanford's Ashton Daniels was named ACC Quarterback of the Week after throwing for 298 yards and three touchdowns against Louisville.

Despite Daniels' impressive showing, Cal safety Craig Woodson and his teammates are not intimidated. Woodson confidently stated that they are determined to dominate Stanford and prove that they are the superior team. He also mentioned that Stanford's win over Louisville does not change their mindset.

For Stanford, their best possible outcome this season is finishing with five wins. However, head coach Troy Taylor believes that any season can be considered successful if it includes a win over their Northern California rival. He also noted that regardless of the teams' records, the Big Game is always a close and exciting matchup, making it a highlight of college sports.

Cal has won the last three Big Games, but Stanford is determined to end that streak and create a memorable moment for their fans. Regardless of the outcome, it is sure to be an intense and highly competitive game.

PREDICTION

Stanford Cardinal

California Golden Bears