In a game that had fans on the edge of their seats until the final play, Virginia Tech outlasted California 42-34 in a double-overtime classic Friday night at Lane Stadium in Blacksburg, Virginia. The Hokies, led by quarterback Kyron Drones, rallied from a 10-point halftime deficit and sealed the win with a gutsy two-point conversion in the second overtime—a victory that could define their season.
How the Drama Unfolded
The Golden Bears struck first, building a 20-10 halftime lead behind a pair of short touchdown runs by Kendrick Raphael and two field goals from Chase Meyer. But Virginia Tech stormed back in the second half, scoring 17 unanswered points to take the lead. Cal answered late in the fourth quarter when Raphael punched in his third touchdown of the night, tying the game at 27-27 with just over two minutes left.
Both teams had chances to win in regulation, but missed field goals by Virginia Tech’s John Love and Cal’s Chase Meyer in the final 62 seconds sent the game to overtime. In the first extra period, Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele connected with tight end Mason Mini for a 25-yard touchdown, but Drones answered with a 17-yard scoring run to force a second overtime.
The Decisive Moment
In the second overtime, Drones—who had already thrown for three touchdowns and run for two more—hit Takye Heath for a 7-yard touchdown pass. Then, on the mandatory two-point attempt, Drones took matters into his own hands, scrambling into the end zone to give the Hokies an eight-point lead. Cal’s freshman quarterback Sagapolutele, who had been steady all night, couldn’t answer, throwing four straight incompletions to end the game.
Standout Performances
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Kyron Drones was the hero for Virginia Tech, accounting for five touchdowns (three passing, two rushing) and 137 yards on the ground.
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Marcellous Hawkins added 167 rushing yards, providing a crucial complement to Drones’ dual-threat ability.
- For Cal,
Kendrick Raphael rushed for three touchdowns, while
Sagapolutele threw for 285 yards and a score in his first road start.
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Cade Uluave anchored the Cal defense with a career-high 19 tackles, including two sacks.
What This Means for Both Teams
The win lifts Virginia Tech to 3-5 overall and 2-2 in ACC play, keeping their bowl hopes alive in a season that has tested their resilience. Interim coach Philip Montgomery praised his team’s fight, calling it a “big win” that could galvanize the locker room for the stretch run.
For California (5-3, 2-2 ACC), the loss is a tough pill to swallow after leading for much of the game. But with four games left, the Bears are still in the hunt for a bowl bid and a winning season. “There is still a lot of season left,” said wide receiver Jacob De Jesus. “We are going to go back to the drawing board and really work on our discipline this week, and be tougher as a team. We’re still really motivated and want to win.”
Looking Ahead
Cal returns home to face Virginia on November 1, while Virginia Tech hits the road for another ACC clash. Both teams will look to build on the momentum—or rebound from the heartbreak—of a game that won’t soon be forgotten by fans of either side.
Expert Take
Games like this are why college football captivates millions every fall. The back-and-forth drama, the clutch performances, and the emotional swings are what make the sport unique. For Virginia Tech, this could be the spark they need to salvage their season. For Cal, it’s a reminder that every play matters in a conference as competitive as the ACC.
Sources
1.
CalBears.com: Bears Fall To Virginia Tech In Overtime2.
CBS Sports: Kyron Drones leads Virginia Tech over California 42-34 in double OT3.
The ACC: Kyron Drones Leads Virginia Tech Over California 42-34 in Double OT4.
ESPN: Virginia Tech 42-34 California (Oct 24, 2025) Game Recap5.
HokieSports.com: Tech takes down Cal in double overtime thriller
Sources
1. Bears Fall To Virginia Tech In Overtime
2. Covers.com - Sports Betting Odds, Lines, Picks & News 2025
3. Kyron Drones leads Virginia Tech over California 42-34 ...
4. Kyron Drones Leads Virginia Tech Over California 42-34 in ...
5. Tech takes down Cal in double overtime thriller
6. Virginia Tech 42-34 California (Oct 24, 2025) Game Recap
7. California Golden Bears vs. Virginia Tech Hokies
8. Postgame Notes: Cal At Virginia Tech - California Golden ...
9. Virginia Tech vs California - Football - 10/24/2025
