California Defeated Virginia Tech 25-20

Ashten Emory scored the winning touchdown in the final seconds to secure a victory for California in Berkeley.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football

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California defeated Virginia Tech 25-20 on October 10, 2026, snapping a two-game losing streak. A 2-yard touchdown run by Ashten Emory with 18 seconds remaining proved the difference in the contest.

Why it matters

The victory improves California to a 2-1 conference record, while Virginia Tech falls to 1-2 in conference play. This result provides California with necessary momentum after dropping their previous two matchups.

Jackson Brousseau completed 29 of 43 passes for 321 yards, while Ethan Grunkemeyer recorded 288 yards on 21 of 31 passing. The game was also defined by ground contributions, including 73 rushing yards for Jeffrey Overton Jr. and 45 for Marcellous Hawkins Jr.

The players

California

This is the university football program based in Berkeley that competes within its conference.

Virginia Tech

This is the university football program that traveled to face California.

Ashten Emory

He is the player who scored the decisive touchdown for California.

Jackson Brousseau

He is the starting quarterback for California who recorded 321 passing yards.

Ethan Grunkemeyer

He is the starting quarterback for Virginia Tech who recorded 288 passing yards.

The details

California secured the win with two fourth-quarter touchdown drives, the last of which was aided by two 15-yard penalties against Virginia Tech. The game concluded with Ashten Emory finding the end zone on a short run in the closing moments.

The game took place in Berkeley on October 10, 2026.
The winning touchdown was scored with 18 seconds remaining in the game.

Season Trajectory

This win moves California to a 2-1 conference record, keeping them within the mix of the divisional race. For Virginia Tech, the loss drops them to 1-2, creating a critical need for consistency as the conference season progresses.

California now holds a 3-3 overall record, keeping the team in contention for potential post-season eligibility. Virginia Tech drops to 4-2 overall, impacting their climb in the conference power rankings.

The takeaway

Close games in conference play often hinge on late-game discipline and penalty avoidance. Maintaining focus during high-pressure drives remains a key factor for success as the season continues.