Kingston Lopa Stands Out Amid Cal’s Losing Streak
Cal safety Kingston Lopa earned the team’s top grade in a 31-10 loss to NC State on October 31, and ranks among the nation’s leading defensive backs this season.
Cal’s 3-6 season has included three straight losses, but safety Kingston Lopa has continued to deliver standout performances. In the Bears’ 31-10 defeat to NC State on October 31, Lopa received a Pro Football Focus grade of 83.7. No other Cal player who played more than 25 snaps scored above 71.7.
Lopa’s season grade of 85.8 ranks eighth among college safeties, while his 91.1 grade in pass coverage leads all defensive backs. He is tied for the national lead with five interceptions, and came close to adding another three times against NC State. He also has 30 solo tackles, two fewer than team leader Isaiah Crosby, despite missing two games with a concussion.
Lopa played a major role in Cal’s 21-18 win over Syracuse, intercepting three passes at key moments, including one he returned for a touchdown. At 6-foot-5, he can line up in several spots behind the defensive line, giving him opportunities to anticipate plays and create turnovers.
Quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, by contrast, had a season-low grade of 52.7 against NC State. His season grade of 71.7 places him tied for 149th among quarterbacks. Cal’s weak running game and offensive line have contributed to his struggles, while receiver Chase Hendrick has 61 catches, fourth in the ACC and 12th nationally.
Sagapolutele’s passer rating is slightly higher this season than last: 132.34 compared with 131.61. He ended 2025 with seven touchdown passes and no interceptions over his final four games. After a bye this week, Cal has three games left in which he could try to finish the season on a similar run.