Virginia’s defense takes out Cal

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — Virginia's defense secured a 36-7 victory over visiting California, ending the Cavaliers' three-game losing streak. Quarterbacks Brandyn Hillman and Kam Robinson each returned interceptions for touchdowns. California's only score came from a 5-yard rushing touchdown by Adam Mohammed in the first half.

UVA, now 5-5 with a 3-4 ACC record, held Cal (3-7, 2-4) to just 201 total yards of offense. On a fourth-and-goal play at the 4-yard line late in the first half, Cal faked a field goal and Hillman intercepted the ball, returning it 99 yards for a touchdown to put UVA up 16-0. Late in the third quarter, Sagapolutele attempted a short pass, but Robinson jumped and intercepted it at the line of scrimmage, returning it 33 yards for another Virginia touchdown and a 26-7 lead.

Virginia kicker Will Bettridge made three field goal attempts. The Golden Bears' offense struggled to get going, and the fake punt decision likely cost Cal. Virginia's defense showed a return to form similar to their Week 0 win over North Carolina State. This victory puts UVA in need of one more win in their final two games to become bowl eligible.