Pittsburgh vs California head-to-head: position-by-position star ratings, experience, and composite grades on CFB Matchup. They meet Week 13, Saturday, November 28, 2026.
The Breakdown
California 64, Pittsburgh 59 — a 4★ quarterback and 4★ backfield drive the gap; Cal starts 55% transfers.
When Pittsburgh has the ball: The 2.8★ O-line, 3.6 years experienced, faces California's 3.5★ D-line — protection is the problem.
When California has the ball: Adam Mohammed's 4★ legs attack Pittsburgh's 3★ linebackers; 3.7★ receivers also top a 3.3★ secondary.
Swing factor: Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, 4★, versus Mason Heintschel, 3★ — both one year in, one full star apart.
X-factor: Week 13 Saturday in Berkeley: Pittsburgh crosses the country in late November for a season-closing road trip.