Bryant Wesco’s punt return TD leads Clemson to a 24-10 win over Cal

BERKELEY, Calif. (AP) — Bryant Wesco Jr. sparked Clemson’s comeback late in the third quarter with his first punt return touchdown in eight years, breaking a tie and leading the Tigers to a 24-10 victory over Cal on Friday night. The game, their first matchup since Cal joined the Atlantic Coast Conference in 2024, saw both offenses struggle.

Clemson’s Gideon Davidson sealed the win with a 75-yard touchdown run with just over two minutes left on the clock, finishing with 159 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Cal managed to tie the game on the opening drive of the second half with a field goal. However, Clemson regained the lead after the Bears punted on their next possession.

Agnus Davies executed a low 39-yard punt down the middle, which Wesco fielded on the run before breaking free for the 65-yard touchdown. This was the Tigers' first punt return touchdown since their 2018 national championship season, when Amari Rodgers had a 58-yarder in a win at Boston College.

Clemson's defense sealed the game as Cal never approached the end zone again. Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele completed 16 of 29 passes for 119 yards and two interceptions, his lowest yardage in 17 career starts. For Clemson, Tait Reynolds completed 108 yards and two interceptions in his second start. Both teams traded interceptions on their opening drives, setting the tone for a defensive-dominated first half.