Cal football appoints Tosh Lupoi, former Oregon defensive coordinator, as head coach.

Tosh Lupoi, former defensive lineman and coach at Cal, is set to return to his alma mater as the new head coach of the Golden Bears football program. Lupoi previously left Cal under contentious circumstances in 2012, but now steps into one of the most prominent positions in the program.

"We are thrilled to welcome Tosh and his family back to Berkeley to lead our football program," said Cal football general manager Ron Rivera. "As a Golden Bear, Tosh understands the responsibilities and privileges of being a student-athlete here. His character, relentless work ethic, coaching expertise, and recruiting skills make him the ideal choice to guide Cal into its next chapter."

Currently serving as Oregons defensive coordinator, Lupoi was officially named Cals head coach on Thursday. He replaces Justin Wilcox, who was dismissed on November 23 after nine seasons at the helm. Under Lupois direction, Oregon ranks third nationally in total defense, allowing just 251.6 yards per game, and ninth in scoring defense, giving up only 14.8 points per game.

Cal alumni have expressed excitement over Lupois appointment. Defensive lineman Cam Jordan and former receivers DeSean Jackson and Geoff McArthur shared their support on social media, highlighting the communitys enthusiasm for his return.

Lupoi, a De La Salle-Concord graduate, played for Cal in the early 2000s and was a defensive line coach from 2008 to 2011 under Jeff Tedford. During that period, he became known as an exceptional recruiter. After leaving Cal in 2012 to join Washington, he spent five years on Nick Sabans staff at Alabama, eventually becoming defensive coordinator and helping the team secure two national championships. Notably, he recruited top talents including running back Najee Harris.

Following his collegiate success, Lupoi coached in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, and Jacksonville Jaguars before returning to college football as Oregons defensive coordinator in 2022. His tenure at Oregon has positioned the Ducks for a likely College Football Playoff appearance this season.

Throughout his career, Lupoi has coached several first-round NFL draft picks, including Cals Tyson Alualu and Cam Jordan, as well as Alabamas Quinnen Williams.

UC Berkeley Chancellor Rich Lyons praised Lupois qualifications and alignment with the universitys values, emphasizing his ability to lead a top-tier football program that balances athletic success with academic and community excellence.

Following Wilcoxs departure, Nick Rolovich served as interim head coach, leading Cal to a 38-35 victory over No. 21 SMU. Rolovich is expected to coach the Bears in the upcoming Hawaii Bowl on December 24, though his future with the program remains uncertain.

Author: Ethan Caldwell