The UCLA Bruins might seem to be in ruins, but they’re a program in transition under new head coach, Chip Kelly, and the talent is still there.
This weekend, when the #10 Huskies come to town you can bet these Bruins will be ready to at least attempt to play their best game, but will it be enough? Here’s what Washington needs to do to come away with a victory in Pasadena.
[icon name=”caret-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] When Washington is on defense they need to take away the running game. Shut it down. Force UCLA’s offense to be one-dimensional.
[icon name=”caret-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] Force Dorian Thompson-Robinson to throw the ball — he will complete some but Washington should pick him off. Also, keep him in the pocket because his biggest strength is his athleticism. Don’t lose leverage, keep him in the pocket.
[icon name=”caret-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] His only weakness at this point is that he’s a true freshman, and he only started one year in high school because he was playing backup to Tate Martell. He’s just raw and hasn’t faced a sophisticated defense yet. Again, he will complete some passes but it’s our prediction he will throw some picks.
[icon name=”caret-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] Run straight at UCLA’s defense. When Jake Browning does pass, look for UCLA to try to blitz and the offensive linemen need to pick up those blitzes. Their pass defense has been brutal throughout the season (allowing 238 per game average, and Washington’s passing yardage is averaging 278 per game), but this is a good time to execute a gashing running game against a Bruin defense that has struggled all season.
[icon name=”caret-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] Play with passion and emotion — get into their heads. Washington has to go into the Rose Bowl because UCLA will be sky-high. They have nothing to lose — zero — except another game. They will be jacked up; meaning they will take chances. Washington needs to face UCLA like they’re a 4-0 team rather than a 0-4 team.
[icon name=”caret-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] Hold on to the ball. Last week Chico McClatcher’s fumble cost UW a shutout. Salvon Ahmed also had a ball stripped from him. Just remember, ball security is crucial.
QUOTABLE
“He’s a hell of a coach — all of his teams are disciplined — his teams are sound in all phases”, Chip Kelly said of Chris Petersen and the Huskies.
