UCLA Football: Bruins Coach Unpacks This Week's Competition

Another tough, ranked Pac-12 team ahead for the Bruins

The UCLA Bruins secured a much-needed victory in their previous game, and they're gearing up for another challenging Pac-12 clash against the 15th-ranked Oregon State Beavers in Corvallis. While Chip Kelly, the head coach of the Bruins, finds Corvallis to be an enjoyable place to play, he's well aware of the difficulties they'll face there. 

"I think their whole offense is a strength they just put 52 on a really good Cal defense. Justin Wilcox and Peter Sherman can coach defense. They were rolling in the game they put up 35 on Washington State, their only loss of the season, but they’re balanced. I think DJ played really well. I think the play-action game off of the running game is something that you really got to be prepared for because you just can’t gang up on the run game. It’s a complete offense, and you have to defend everything. This is big boy football.” 

(via Chip Kelly)

Coach Kelly emphasized the challenges posed by the Beavers as they prepare for this upcoming showdown. Oregon State's quarterback, D.J. Uiagalelei, is having a phenomenal season, and he's one of several exceptional quarterbacks in the Pac-12. 

Uiagalelei has already thrown for 13 touchdowns, accumulating 1,307 passing yards with a completion rate of 60.5%. On the ground, their star running back, Damien Martinez, is averaging an impressive 6.5 yards per carry, scoring three rushing touchdowns and amassing 586 yards on 90 attempts.

For the Bruins, this game presents another significant test for their defense. If they can continue their recent strong performances on defense and see some improvement from the offense, the Bruins have an excellent chance to come away with a victory. Facing a potent Oregon State team will undoubtedly require a collective effort from both sides of the ball.

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