Clemson’s first ACC trip to California comes with a quick turnaround and a late-night kickoff, as the Tigers head west looking to extend their winning streak to three games.
Friday’s matchup against Cal is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. EDT on ESPN, giving Clemson little time to prepare following Saturday’s dramatic 28-20 comeback victory over North Carolina.
The Tigers (2-1, 1-0 ACC) erased a 17-3 deficit against the Tar Heels, overcoming a game that saw their chances of winning fall to just 19% in TigerNet’s analytics before a fourth-quarter weather delay.
Cal (2-1, 1-0 ACC) presents a different challenge, particularly through the air. Quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele is coming off a career-high 413 passing yards and three touchdowns in a 49-7
blowout of Wagner. The Golden Bears piled up more than 600 yards of offense in the win.
The Golden Bears previously knocked off Syracuse, 21-18, on the road after suffering a 45-24 loss to UCLA in their season opener.
Photos from Clemson football's thrilling comeback win over UNC
— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) September 19, 2026
📸 Ashley Tumlin, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect https://t.co/BQRyxVA2LN pic.twitter.com/8wE9UqSgje
There is also a little history between these programs. Their only previous meeting came in the 1992 Citrus Bowl, when Cal handed Clemson a 37-13 defeat.
Clemson enters Friday having covered the spread in three straight ACC contests. ESPN’s Football Power Index gives the Tigers a 60.4% probability of leaving California with a victory.
Betting odds (DraftKings): Clemson is favored by 1.5 points, -115, with the over/under set at 47.5.
Contact us at @Clemson_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news, notes and opinions.
This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Opening betting lines for Clemson’s Week 4 matchup against Cal released
Advertiser disclosure: USA TODAY may earn a commission when you sign up through links on this page. Commissions never influence our editorial coverage or rankings. Offers and odds were accurate at publication and are subject to change; terms apply — see the operator’s site. This is general information, not betting, legal or financial advice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, USA TODAY is not liable for losses arising from your use of it.
Must be 21+ (18+ where permitted). Sports betting and casino gaming are not legal everywhere; complying with the laws where you are located is your responsibility. Gamble only with funds you can afford to lose. Gambling problem? Help is available 24/7 — call or text 1-800-GAMBLER, or call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET. State helplines and responsible gaming resources.
