The No. 8 Miami Hurricanes are embarking on a cross-country road trip to face the California Golden Bears in a key ACC matchup. The Hurricanes just avoided an upset last week, and they'll look to do the same in Berkeley late on Saturday night.
Last Friday night, Miami was a few fingertips away from losing to Virginia Tech, but it managed to survive a Hail Mary and maintain its perfect record. This weekend brings another sneaky challenge for the Canes as they face a Cal team that has more than held its own through four games this year.
The difference in this one might be Heisman Trophy candidate Cam Ward behind center for Miami. Since transferring from Washington State, he has been brilliant for the Hurricanes. Ward has already made some flashy plays, and he leads the ACC with 1,782 passing yards and 18 touchdowns.
The Golden Bears had a bye last week, but they're looking to rebound from their Week 4 loss to Florida State. That was Cal's second lengthy road trip in three weeks after taking down Auburn in Jordan-Hare Stadium on Sept. 7. Now, the Golden Bears get to stay home while Miami travels 3,000 miles.
The key for Cal will be whether its defense, which hasn't allowed more than 14 points in a game so far, can contain Ward and a high-powered Canes offense.
Where to watch California vs. Miami
- When: Saturday, Oct. 5 at 10:30 p.m. ET
- Where: California Memorial Stadium -- Berkeley, California
- TV: ESPN
- Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
California vs. Miami spread, odds
Despite its lengthy journey, Miami is a comfortable 10.5-point favorite against California, according to the SportsLine consensus. The over/under is 55 points.
California vs. Miami series history
- Dec. 27, 2008 -- California 24, Miami 17
- Sept. 16, 1989 -- Miami 31, California 3
- Sept. 15, 1990 -- Miami 52, California 24
- Oct. 10, 1964 -- California 9, Miami 7