Hawai'i escaped with a 35-31 victory over California in a high-scoring Week 1 matchup, covering the -1.5 spread in a game that exceeded the over-under of 54.5 points.

California struck first with a 41-yard touchdown pass from Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele to Jacob De Jesus in the opening quarter. The Bears built momentum through the first half, scoring 21 points by halftime while holding Hawai'i to 10. However, the Rainbow Warriors dominated the second half, outscoring Cal 25-10 in the final two quarters to secure the comeback win.

Sagapolutele led California's offense with 337 passing yards, connecting with Trond Grizzell for 98 receiving yards and handing off to Kendrick Raphael for 90 rushing yards. Despite the offensive productivity, Cal's fourth-quarter drive fell short.

The game featured several momentum-shifting plays throughout, with both defenses forcing critical stops. Hawai'i's fourth-quarter defense proved particularly effective in holding off Cal's late-game attempts, sealing the victory with key defensive stands down the stretch.