$6 million coach emerges as candidate for California head coaching job

The University of California has dismissed head football coach Justin Wilcox after nine seasons, following a 31-10 defeat to Stanford, which left the Golden Bears at 6-5 for the season. The decision was influenced by discipline and turnover issues during the game, including 13 penalties and three lost fumbles, as well as a program evaluation by general manager Ron Rivera. Wilcox ranks as the sixth-winningest coach in the program's history with an overall record of 48-55.

Oregon defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi has emerged as a potential frontrunner for the coaching vacancy. Lupoi, a Walnut Creek native and former Cal player, has a considerable coaching resume, including stints in the NFL and significant roles at Cal, Washington, and Alabama, where he contributed to two CFP national championships. He joined Oregon in 2022, crafting one of the top defenses in college football.

Lupoi's current contract with Oregon extends through 2027, valued at $6 million