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UCLA Football vs. Colorado: 3 Keys to Victory

By Mike Regalado

Oct 31, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Soso Jamabo (1) celebrates with his team after running in for touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Rose Bowl. The UCLA Bruins won 35-31. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Soso Jamabo (1) celebrates with his team after running in for touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Rose Bowl. The UCLA Bruins won 35-31. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /
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The UCLA Football team have a chance to prove their might this Thursday against Colorado. Here is how the Bruins can make that happen.

1. Unbalance the Balanced Team

Colorado is much improved this year and it has to do with improvements on both sides of the ball. They are one of the only teams that is in the Top 20 in the nation in total offense and defense. They are very efficient on offense and have an incredible defense.

In order to disrupt Colorado’s flow, UCLA needs to control time of possession. Keeping the ball away from the Buffs is the best way to prevent them from executing their game plan. Now how UCLA goes about that is the question.

2. Be Smart With the Pass, Work the Run

In order to control time of possession, UCLA needs to run the ball. The Bruins had some success going pass-heavy against Utah, but they also had minimal T.O.P. because they either scored quickly or turned the ball over (seven times). That included 4 interceptions from backup QB Mike Fafaul.

UCLA only had four runs plays called in that contest. Though that game plan surprised the Utes, Colorado will be more prepared, especially as the second best pass defense team in the Pac-12. In order to survive, UCLA needs to use the run and not abandon it.

3. Prove The Defense Against Utah Was a One-Time Thing

The reason UCLA needs to use the run is because it chews up clock and keeps the offense on the field longer. That means the defense gets more rest.

When the defense is on the field longer then they should, they get exhausted. UCLA does not want their squad gassed, especially if they are the only ones keeping them in the game.

Next: UCLA Football Injury Report

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It all has to do with control. If UCLA can control the ball with a balanced effort of their own, then they will be able to conquer the upstart Buffs. Go Bruins!