Cal Brings Back Joe Roth Era Uniforms for 2026 Season Opener
Cal is opening the 2026 college football season by honoring one of the most important figures in Golden Bears history.
The program announced Wednesday that it will bring back its Joe Roth-era uniforms for the season opener against UCLA, reintroducing a classic look with a powerful connection to Cal's history.
Roth was Cal's starting quarterback for two seasons in 1975 and 1976, emerging as one of the top players in the country during his senior season. He finished ninth in Heisman Trophy voting in 1976 before his life was tragically cut short the following year. Roth died from melanoma in 1977 at just 21 years old.
Cal's announcement centered on Roth's legacy beyond what he accomplished on the football field.
The uniforms serve as a tribute to that legacy while bringing back a look from one of the most memorable eras in Cal football.
The choice of UCLA as the opponent makes the return even more meaningful.
The throwback uniform closely recreates Cal’s 1970s-era look, featuring a classic blue jersey paired with solid gold pants. The jersey includes bold white-and-gold striping on the shoulders and sleeves, a traditional gold “C” centered on the chest, and the vintage Cal script logo prominently featured on the gold helmet. The helmet also brings back the era’s blue center striping, while the gold pants are finished with matching blue-and-white accents for a complete throwback look.
Cal has historically worn its Joe Roth throwback uniforms for its annual home matchup against either UCLA or USC. The tradition dates back to the programs' days together in the Pac-12, when those matchups were regular fixtures on the schedule.
Joe Roth's legacy returns to the field when Cal opens the 2026 season against UCLA.
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