UCLA vs. Cal Game Recap: The Bruins Win A Rocky One At Memorial 36-34
By Matt Wagner
The UCLA Bruins headed into Berkeley needing a victory after a heartbreaking loss to Utah, followed by getting blown out vs. Oregon. And while it wasn’t pretty, they got the win.
The Bruin defense, particularly Owamagbe Odighizuwa and the rest of the defensive line, was much improved and reeking havoc in the Golden Bear backfield throughout the first half, looking like the hyped unit they were coming into the season.
The offensive line was much better as well throughout, and Brett Hundley had more time in the pocket. Despite this though, he ended up throwing a key interception late which gave Cal a chance to steal a win late.
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Paul Perkins once again made an impact for the Bruins, finishing with 86 yards on 15 carries and also made an impact receiving, compiling 75 yards and two touchdowns on four receptions.
Offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone utilized the screen game a lot today and the Bruin offense was efficient from the start. And despite a few hiccups late, the Bruins pulled out the victory thanks to some heroics late.
With less than a minute remaining in the contest and Cal on the edge of field goal range, Golden Bear quarterback Jared Goff heaved one deep when sophomore defensive back Marcus Rios picked it off at the one-yard line to seal the hard fought 36-34 win for UCLA.
Certainly, the Bruins still don’t look too great given the inconsistency late, but UCLA got a huge victory for confidence sake, and the 5-2 Bruins look to take another positive step when they travel to Boulder to take on the Colorado Buffaloes next week.