Cal QBs Ranked Low in ACC: 5 Takeaways from USA Today, Sporting News

As the 2025 college football season approaches, California Golden Bears fans received some tough news—two major national outlets, USA Today and The Sporting News, have ranked Cal’s quarterback group near the bottom of the ACC. The rankings, based on projected starter performance and depth, have raised concerns about the team’s ability to compete in its new conference.

With the Bears entering the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) for the first time this fall, expectations are high—but these rankings suggest the quarterback position might be a major hurdle. Here’s a closer look at what these rankings mean, what’s being said, and how Cal can respond.

1. Cal QBs Ranked 14th Out of 17 ACC Programs

Both USA Today and The Sporting News placed Cal’s quarterback room in the bottom tier, specifically 14th out of 17 ACC schools. The rankings consider returning production, projected starter talent, and backup quality. These outlets cited uncertainty at the position, lack of experience, and inconsistency from last season.

Cal’s projected starter, Fernando Mendoza, showed flashes of promise in 2024 but struggled with turnovers and accuracy in high-pressure games. He finished with a modest stat line—throwing for just over 1,800 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions.

2. Lack of Experience and Depth Hurts Rankings

One of the main reasons for Cal’s low position is the lack of proven depth behind Mendoza. The backup situation remains unsettled, with no clear second option stepping up in spring practices. Competing ACC schools like Florida State, Clemson, and North Carolina boast seasoned starters or elite-level recruits.

The Sporting News wrote:

“Cal’s transition to the ACC brings challenges, and quarterback may be the biggest. There’s limited experience and few proven playmakers under center.”

3. The Conference Move Makes the Spotlight Brighter

Cal’s move to the ACC has amplified national attention on the program—and quarterback play is often the focal point. Competing against powerhouses like Miami, Duke, and NC State, Cal will need better-than-average QB play to stay in games, especially with unfamiliar road environments and stronger defenses.

The ACC is known for its strong defensive units and fast-paced offenses. For Cal to succeed, the quarterback room must make a leap in both consistency and execution.

4. Mendoza Has Potential, But Pressure Is On

Despite the rankings, insiders believe Fernando Mendoza could outperform expectations. The sophomore quarterback has shown good leadership, a strong arm, and mobility, but now he must translate that into production.

Head Coach Justin Wilcox defended his quarterback in a recent media session, stating:

“Fernando is growing every day. He’s got the tools, he’s got the work ethic. What we need now is consistency.”

Wilcox and new offensive coordinator Spencer Brasch are reportedly redesigning the offense to simplify reads and take advantage of Mendoza’s dual-threat ability. That could be the key to surprising ACC defenses.

5. Motivation or Misjudgment?

These rankings can also serve as fuel for the Bears. Being underestimated heading into a new conference might push the team harder in fall camp. Players and coaches have acknowledged the criticism and seem ready to prove doubters wrong.

Senior wide receiver Jeremiah Hunter said in an interview:

“They don’t see the work we put in every day. Let ‘em rank us low—we’ll change their minds on Saturdays.”

How Cal Can Turn It Around

For Cal to shake off the low ranking and rise up the ACC charts, the path forward includes:

• Improving offensive line protection to give QBs time to throw
• Establishing a strong running game to take pressure off the passing attack
• Developing receiver chemistry to help Mendoza find rhythm early in games
• Building QB confidence early in the season, especially in non-conference matchups
• Reducing turnovers, a major issue during the 2024 season

If Mendoza develops into a reliable starter and Cal’s play-calling becomes more aggressive, the team could exceed these projections quickly.

Final Thoughts

The Cal QBs ACC ranking by The Sporting News and USA Today isn’t flattering—but it’s also not final. Rankings are predictions, not guarantees. The real story will be told when the season kicks off, and Cal gets its first true test as an ACC member.

With the right adjustments and growth from Mendoza, the Bears could turn this criticism into a comeback narrative. For now, the spotlight is on, and the challenge is clear: prove them wrong, one throw at a time.

Would you like a breakdown of Cal’s 2025 schedule and where QB performance will matter most?

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