Kansas State Vs UCLA In The Alamo Bowl: Go Joe Bruin Predicts The Game
We are finally at the last game of the season for UCLA football and this one is going to be tough as the Bruins take on the Kansas State Wildcats in the Valero Alamo Bowl on January 2. For one last time, the staff writers of Go Joe Bruin have gotten together to analyze the game and give their predictions. So who will it be? Bruins or Wildcats?
UCLA Bruins
Kansas State 30 – UCLA 31.
This game comes down to UCLA’s level of motivation. If the Bruins come in with a chip on their shoulder with a point to prove, then they should win because they are the more talented team. But if they come out flat after the disappointment of missing out on the chance to play for a division title after the crushing loss to Stanford, then Kansas State will exploit that mentality and feed on it. These Bruins seem to thrive on being underdogs and play poorly as favorites, so an underdog mindset will hopefully propel them to victory.
Kansas State 24 – UCLA 30
UCLA will win a competitive Alamo Bowl that matches up two similar Power 5 Conference teams. The Bruins superior running game and more diverse passing game will be the difference in the end.
Nov 22, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Brett Hundley (17) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Southern California Trojans during the second half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas State 27 – UCLA 34
K-State has been, and still is a well coached team with Bill Snyder at the helm. Expect them to come out ready to counter what the Bruins in the first half. The slow start will force the Bruin offense to reconsider it’s gameplan, as they change things up and simply rely on their athletes in the second half.
Kansas State 14 – UCLA 28
UCLA has had a few weeks to prepare for the Alamo Bowl and despite the Bruins’ very disappointing loss against Stanford to end the regular year, the team should come in with a chip on their shoulder, even though this game won’t be for the right to go to AT&T Stadium.
Even though UCLA’s offense has been inconsistent, the multiple weeks of practice leading up to the game should help that unit get in check and look for them to put up a few scores versus Kansas State. The running game will be key in this one, and look for Paul Perkins and co. to live up to the expectations.
Meanwhile, UCLA’s defense has a tough test against the Wildcats. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has been under pressure all season, given the struggles in the secondary and on the defensive line . Even though the Bruins defense could have some difficulty stopping Jake Waters and the prolific K-State passing attack, UCLA should be able to step up when it counts and get the victory in San Antonio.
Nov 1, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich talks to his players during the second quarter against the Arizona Wildcats at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas State 28- UCLA 35
It seems as if UCLA and K-State have very similar offenses which will put both offenses to the test. With that, I belive that it is UCLA that has the better defense which will be the main factor in this game. Though the Bruins may start slow, they will definitely finish strong.