Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, September 24, 2025
News Summary
Boston College football is set to return to Alumni Stadium for a crucial matchup against the Cal Golden Bears as both teams hunt for their first win in ACC play. The game is scheduled for September 27 at 3:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on the ACC Network. Boston College, with a record of 1-2, aims to capitalize on their strong passing offense led by quarterback Dylan Lonergan, while Cal, currently 3-1, looks to bounce back after a recent loss. This game will be significant for both teams as they strive to establish momentum in conference play.
Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
BC returns home to face Cal as both teams chase first ACC win
Boston College football returns to Alumni Stadium after two weeks on the road to face the Cal Golden Bears. The matchup is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, at 3:30 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on the ACC Network. Both programs seek their first win in ACC play since Cal joined the conference last season.
Key context and records
Current Cal record is 3-1, having won against Oregon State (34-15), Texas Southern (35-3), and Minnesota (27-14), but lost to San Diego State (34-0). Boston College is currently 1-2 on the season, with a previous loss in their ACC opener against Stanford (30-20).
Statistical leaders and team strengths
Boston College leads the nation in passing offense, averaging 393.7 yards per game. Dylan Lonergan, BC’s quarterback, ranks second in the country in passing yards per game at 330.3 and has thrown nine passing touchdowns. Boston College’s Lewis Bond leads the nation in receptions per game (9.67) and ranks second in the ACC in yards per game (91.7). Dylan Lonergan’s completion percentage of 73.2% ranks second in the ACC and is the tenth highest nationally. The Eagles also hold the best record in the ACC for red-zone touchdowns, with a total of 13.
Coaching notes and game preparation
Boston College head coach Bill O’Brien emphasized basic skill improvements over the bye week, focusing on tackling, ball security, and execution on both offense and defense. The Eagles are focusing on correcting mistakes from previous games, particularly regarding ball security, with tailback Turbo Richard having committed crucial fumbles in both losses.
Cal head coach Justin Wilcox praised BC’s head coach Bill O’Brien, describing him as a phenomenal coach with an impressive resume. Wilcox noted that BC’s offense runs the ball effectively and adjusts to players’ strengths well. Wilcox described BC’s quarterback Dylan Lonergan as a good player, stating he is comfortable in the pocket and excels in progressing through passing options.
Logistics and home-field emphasis
O’Brien emphasized the importance of home support for their upcoming game and the energy it brings to the team. The travel schedule includes the team departing for California on Thursday, ensuring routine remains unchanged despite the longer flight.
Historical note
The last meeting between Boston College and California was on September 13, 1986, where BC secured a 21-15 victory. That long gap between matchups adds historical interest to the 2025 meeting as both teams work toward an ACC breakthrough.
What to watch
- Boston College’s passing attack led by Dylan Lonergan and his high completion rate and passing yards.
- Lewis Bond’s role as a primary receiving target and his national receptions lead.
- Ball security issues for Boston College, particularly the impact of Turbo Richard’s fumbles on game outcomes.
- Cal’s defensive adjustments after a 34-0 loss and how they respond to BC’s passing-heavy attack.
- Red-zone efficiency, where Boston College currently leads the ACC in touchdowns.
Bottom line
The game presents a contrasting storyline: Boston College’s prolific passing offense and red-zone touch efficiency against a Cal team with a 3-1 start looking to cement momentum in a new conference. Both teams are seeking their first ACC win, and the result will shape early conference positioning.
FAQ
When and where is the game?
The matchup is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, at 3:30 p.m. ET.
What network will broadcast the game?
The game will be broadcast on the ACC Network.
What are the current records for each team?
Current Cal record is 3-1, having won against Oregon State (34-15), Texas Southern (35-3), and Minnesota (27-14), but lost to San Diego State (34-0). Boston College is currently 1-2 on the season, with a previous loss in their ACC opener against Stanford (30-20).
Who are Boston College’s statistical leaders?
Boston College leads the nation in passing offense, averaging 393.7 yards per game. Dylan Lonergan, BC’s quarterback, ranks second in the country in passing yards per game at 330.3 and has thrown nine passing touchdowns. Boston College’s Lewis Bond leads the nation in receptions per game (9.67) and ranks second in the ACC in yards per game (91.7). Dylan Lonergan’s completion percentage of 73.2% ranks second in the ACC and is the tenth highest nationally. Boston College has the best record in the ACC for red-zone touchdowns, with a total of 13.
What issues are Boston College trying to fix?
Boston College head coach Bill O’Brien emphasized basic skill improvements over the bye week, focusing on tackling, ball security, and execution on both offense and defense. The Eagles are focusing on correcting mistakes from previous games, particularly regarding ball security, with tailback Turbo Richard having committed crucial fumbles in both losses.
When did these teams last play?
The last meeting between Boston College and California was on September 13, 1986, where BC secured a 21-15 victory.
Are both teams still looking for their first ACC win?
Both programs seek their first win in ACC play since Cal joined the conference last season.
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Quick reference table
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Game | Boston College vs. Cal Golden Bears |
| Date & Time | Saturday, September 27, at 3:30 p.m. ET |
| Location | Alumni Stadium, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts |
| Broadcast | ACC Network |
| Boston College record | Boston College is currently 1-2 on the season, with a previous loss in their ACC opener against Stanford (30-20). |
| Cal record | Current Cal record is 3-1, having won against Oregon State (34-15), Texas Southern (35-3), and Minnesota (27-14), but lost to San Diego State (34-0). |
| BC passing offense | Boston College leads the nation in passing offense, averaging 393.7 yards per game. |
| Key BC player | Dylan Lonergan — ranks second in the country in passing yards per game at 330.3 and has thrown nine passing touchdowns; completion percentage of 73.2% ranks second in the ACC and is the tenth highest nationally. |
| Key BC receiver | Lewis Bond — leads the nation in receptions per game (9.67) and ranks second in the ACC in yards per game (91.7). |
| Red-zone | Boston College has the best record in the ACC for red-zone touchdowns, with a total of 13. |
| Notable concern | Ball security — tailback Turbo Richard committed crucial fumbles in both losses. |
| Coaching notes | Bill O’Brien emphasized basic skill improvements over the bye week, focusing on tackling, ball security, and execution on both offense and defense. Cal head coach Justin Wilcox noted BC’s offensive strengths and described Dylan Lonergan as a good player who is comfortable in the pocket and progresses through passing options. |
| Last meeting | The last meeting between Boston College and California was on September 13, 1986, where BC secured a 21-15 victory. |
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Additional Resources
- Cal Bears Official Site
- Boston College Official Site
- Sports Illustrated
- MassLive
- Wikipedia: College football
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