Cal Safety Kingston Lopa Named Bednarik Semifinalist
The Cal defender is one of 18 semifinalists for the award given to the nation's top defensive player.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Football
Cal safety Kingston Lopa was named one of 18 semifinalists for the Chuck Bednarik Award, presented to the nation's top defensive player. The third-year sophomore transfer from Oregon leads the nation with five pass interceptions, placing him second nationally in that category.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights Lopa's season-long production for a Cal team that has struggled to a 3-6 record and three consecutive losses. Cal needs to win its final three games to secure bowl eligibility, and Lopa's performance remains central to its defense.
Lopa ranks No. 2 nationally with five interceptions and carries a Pro Football Focus pass coverage grade of 91.1, the highest among defensive backs through last week. He has 39 tackles, including 30 solo stops, and was the NCAA interception leader for seven consecutive weeks.
The players
Kingston Lopa
Lopa is a Cal safety and a third-year sophomore transfer from Oregon, originally from Sacramento.
Chuck Bednarik Award
The Chuck Bednarik Award, first presented in 1994, honors the nation's top defensive player in college football.
The details
Lopa picked off three passes in Cal's Week 2 win at Syracuse, including a 24-yard pick-six that put Cal ahead. He missed two games last month with a concussion and returns from a bye week Saturday at Virginia.
Timeline
Week 2: Lopa's three-interception game at Syracuse
Last month: Lopa missed two games due to concussion
Last weekend: Cal had a bye week
Saturday: Cal plays at Virginia
Season Trajectory
The Chuck Bednarik Award, first presented in 1994, recognizes the nation's top defensive player, and Lopa's semifinalist status places him among 18 contenders for that honor. For Cal, the nomination arrives as the program works to win its final three games and reach bowl eligibility from a 3-6 start.
Lopa's five interceptions give him strong value for fantasy and defensive-tracking contests this week. Cal's Saturday game at Virginia is the next opportunity to see whether his ball production continues during its push for bowl eligibility.
The takeaway
Lopa's recognition shows how a transfer can become a national defensive leader in a single season. Cal's remaining three games will determine whether a 3-6 team can still reach bowl eligibility.
What happens next
Cal plays at Virginia on Saturday, and the Bednarik Award finalists will be announced at a later date to be determined.
Further reading
Explore more on Football coverage tied to Cal's season and its defensive standouts.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
