Why Cal, Stanford may be outmatched in ACC games vs. Virginia Tech, Notre Dame

The California Golden Bears (2-3) are set to face the Virginia Tech Hokies (4-1) in an upcoming ACC matchup, while Stanford University will host the No. 3 Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Both Cal and Stanford are facing significant challenges, with injuries and playcalling issues threatening their chances.

For California, quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele is listed as questionable due to a concussion suffered in their 38-31 loss to UNLV. In his absence, backup Jackson Brousseau has been called upon, with mixed results. Offensive coordinator Jordan Somerville has been replaced by pass-game coordinator Pat McCann, who has made changes on the fly during games. Head coach Tosh Lupoi has expressed confidence in the team's potential and ability to turn the season around, but the results have yet to materialize.

Not surprisingly, Virginia Tech boasts a formidable defense, ranking 11th in the nation for havoc rate (20.5%) and leading the ACC with 51 total forced fumbles and 18 sacks. Their defensive lineman Aycen Stevens and Cortez Harris are among the top performers in the conference. Meanwhile, California's offensive line has struggled this season, making it difficult for the Bears to block Virginia Tech's pass rush.

In contrast, Stanford faces the formidable No. 3 Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Stanford's head coach Tavita Pritchard admitted that his team has been struggling with focus, citing their 57-3 loss to Wake Forest as a recent example. With a new quarterback in Ethan Grunkemeyer, who has shown improvements in arm strength and decision-making, Stanford will be eager to regain their focus as they prepare to face Notre Dame in The Legends Trophy matchup.