The 127th Big Game between the Stanford Cardinal and the California Golden Bears is set for November 23, 2024, at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley. This historic rivalry, dating back to 1892, carries significant weight for both programs, offering a chance to claim regional bragging rights and conclude the season positively. Stanford enters the game with a 2-7 record, reflecting a challenging season under head coach Troy Taylor. The Cardinal’s offense has struggled, averaging 17.5 points per game, ranking near the bottom of the ACC. Quarterback Ashton Daniels has shown flashes of potential but has been inconsistent, throwing for 1,800 yards with 12 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Wide receiver Elic Ayomanor has been a bright spot, recording 1,013 receiving yards and six touchdowns, providing a reliable target in the passing game. The rushing attack has been underwhelming, with running back Sedrick Irvin leading the team with 300 yards and three touchdowns. The offensive line has faced challenges, allowing 41 sacks, which has hindered both the passing and running games. Defensively, Stanford has allowed 37 points per game, ranking near the bottom nationally. The run defense has been particularly porous, conceding 180 yards per game, which opponents have exploited throughout the season. Linebackers Gaethan Bernadel and Tristan Sinclair have been standouts, combining for over 160 tackles, but the unit as a whole has struggled to contain opposing offenses. The secondary, led by cornerbacks Collin Wright and Zahrain Manley, has shown potential but has been hampered by a lack of pass rush, allowing quarterbacks ample time to find open receivers. California holds a 5-5 record, showcasing a more balanced season under head coach Justin Wilcox. The Golden Bears’ offense has been more productive, averaging 28 points per game, ranking in the middle of the ACC. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza has been efficient, throwing for 2,200 yards with 18 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Wide receiver Jeremiah Hunter has been his primary target, amassing 800 receiving yards and six touchdowns.

The rushing attack, led by running back Jaydn Ott, has been effective, averaging 150 yards per game, with Ott contributing 700 yards and nine touchdowns. The offensive line has provided solid protection, allowing fewer sacks and creating running lanes for the backs. Defensively, California has allowed 26 points per game, ranking in the middle of the conference. The run defense has been stout, conceding 140 yards per game, which will be crucial against Stanford’s struggling ground game. Linebacker Jackson Sirmon leads the team with 85 tackles, providing leadership and stability in the middle. The secondary has been opportunistic, with multiple interceptions that have shifted momentum in key games. However, the pass defense has been vulnerable at times, allowing 250 passing yards per game. Key factors in this matchup include turnover margin, third-down efficiency, and red-zone performance. Stanford must protect the football and sustain drives to keep California’s offense off the field. California, on the other hand, needs to exploit Stanford’s defensive weaknesses and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Given the historical nature of the rivalry and the current form of both teams, the Golden Bears appear to have the advantage, but rivalry games often defy expectations, making this a potentially close and exciting contest.