Week 9: vs California (Nov. 8th)
California makes the long trip to Louisville for this rare ACC matchup, entering 2025 with tempered expectations after a 6–7 record last year. The Golden Bears return starting quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who threw for over 2,200 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2024. Cal’s offense also features veteran receiver Trond Grizzell and running back Jaydn Ott, a dynamic threat who posted over 1,200 scrimmage yards last season.
Defensively, Cal struggled last year, finishing near the bottom of the Power Five in total defense (allowing 417 yards per game). While linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr returns as a leader in the middle, questions remain in the secondary and overall depth.
The Louisville offense behind Miller, Bell and Brown should pick up right where they have been all season long and overpower Cal in this one.
Prediction: W (8-1) Louisville 38 - Cal 17
Related: 2 Louisville Cardinals stocks rising, 2 that are falling entering 2025 season