STANFORD, Calif. - Due to poor air quality in the Bay Area from the devastating wildfires in Butte County, the 121st Big Game between Cal and Stanford has been rescheduled for Saturday, Dec. 1 at California Memorial Stadium. The game will kick off at noon and be televised on Pac-12 Network.
The 121st Big Game was originally scheduled for Saturday at 4:30 p.m. in Berkeley. However, after extensive consultation with campus medical and environmental experts, the Pac-12 Conference and Stanford, UC Berkeley's Chancellor, Carol Christ, and Director of Athletics Jim Knowlton concluded that the game should be postponed due to concerns for the health and well-being of student-athletes, staff, the band and student groups, and fans.
While the initial intention was to wait until Saturday to make a final decision, current air quality conditions provided by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, and forecasts for the weekend are indicating that Air Quality Index (AQI) levels are unlikely to sufficiently improve by Saturday afternoon. The decision is consistent with guidelines established by the NCAA Sports Science Institute and the Pac-12's Health and Well-Being Board.
All tickets to the Nov. 17 game will be honored on Dec. 1, and fans should bring the tickets they currently have to gain entrance on the rescheduled date. Fans with questions should call (800) STANFORD and press option 4.
Since 1892, Stanford and Cal have met 120 times, including each of the last 71 years dating back to a three-year gap during World War II (1943-45). The Cardinal holds the all-time series lead 63-46-11 in the Big Game, and has won a series-record eight in a row over the Bears.
Statement from Jaquish & Kenninger Director of Athletics Bernard Muir
"The entire Stanford Athletics community recognizes this has been an extremely challenging time for so many people who have been affected by the wildfires, both in the Bay Area and throughout the state. Our thoughts are with them, first and foremost. We are thankful to the University of California for collaborating with us on the logistical challenges of rescheduling the Big Game, and are looking forward to playing the game on Dec. 1."