UCLA Football: Writer Bullish On Defense's Ability To Contain Utah In Loss
Even in defeat this weekend, the UCLA Bruins defense showed out. They continued their strong start to the season against one of the best teams in the country.
The Bruins showed that they could hang with a team like Utah, and the effort was led by their defense. They kept UCLA alive in the game while the offense struggled, and it was impressive to witness.
“Adjusting to the strength of the opponent wasn’t an issue for UCLA’s defense. These guys stood firm against Utah, holding the two-time defending Pac-12 champions to 219 yards while continuing the season’s most encouraging trend.”
The Bruins have made a living on the defensive side of the ball this season under new defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn. They play fast and free, allowing them to be a real force against opposing offenses so far.
“Through four games, the Bruins have given up a total of 44 points and an average of 11 per game. UCLA hasn’t held its first four opponents to 20 points or fewer since it reached that threshold against its first six opponents in 2001, beating Alabama (20-17), Kansas (41-17), Ohio State (13-6), Oregon State (38-7), Washington (35-13) and California (51-17).”
If the Bruins can keep up this level of defensive play, they should be in great shape the rest of the way. The offense isn’t going to play that badly very often, so the defense can be the driving force for them.
Coming into the game, it was a wonder how the Bruins defense would stand up to a team like the Utes, and they passed the test with flying colors. It was a great sign for the Bruins going forward, and they have an identity now. They aren’t going to be messed with on the defensive end, and it has shown in the level of production this year.
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