UCLA Football: 5 Takeaways From the Loss to USC
The UCLA Football team was undeniably crushed by the USC Trojans. Here are five things, among many, that we took away from UCLA’s 36-14 loss.
1. Gave up on the run/players
UCLA started with a solid run plan. They started with a solid back, Bolu Olorunfunmi, who had nine yards in his first two carries. Then they decided to use Jalen Starks, Nate Starks and Soso Jamabo (Darren Andrews and Mike Fafaul also recorded a rush each), and divide 19 carries between them. Though the Bruin coaches should have stuck with one or two backs (ONLY!), they also did not stick with the run.
Out of their 19 carries, UCLA had 10 in the first quarter and 14 total in the first half. Funny thing, the only quarter UCLA scored in was the first.
2. The offense is offensive
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Giving up on the run means they gave up on their game plan and after their last score in the first quarter, UCLA had six punts and a turnover on downs. QB Mike Fafaul was unable to get anything going with his offense against the aggressive Trojan front. Though he was able to scramble and get out of trouble, he was unsuccessful throwing on the run or rolling out. Unlike his counter part, USC QB Sam Darnold who excelled at that.
3. Defense continues to suffer because of it
And because the offense could do absolutely nothing, it kept the defense on the field longer than they needed to. USC was methodical in their offense. because they were able to control the clock (almost 3/4 of the game) and wore down the defense. Again. The Bruin defense has been outstanding this season, but against USC, they looked like Oregon State.
4. Filed position woes
Six times USC started their drives at the 35 or better. Five of those times, USC scored on the drive. Three of those drives started from 49 yards or better. Whether it was punts, allowing the returner to get extra yards or having penalties muck up a drive, UCLA gave USC every opportunity to get into position to score.
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5. Coaching needs to change
USC adjusted. UCLA did not. The Bruins had a smart, witty offensive game plan in the first quarter and went away from it. Because they did not react to what USC was dishing out to them, UCLA suffered on all fronts.