So it looks like the Bruins were able to finally put together a complete game… or at least a complete game after the half, but still, #18 UCLA (7-2, 4-2) came out with a big victory led by the defense which shut down #19 Arizona (6-2, 3-2) in three quarters for the 17-7 win. Finally, proof that the Bruins have what it takes to compete at a high level after lackluster wins against Cal and Colorado. Here is the Go Joe Bruin Position Group Report Card for Arizona Vs UCLA.
Betsided
Quarterbacks: B
If it was not for Brett Hundley‘s legs, this grade would be a lot lower. The third-year Bruin quarterback was not making a lot of quick decisions and it hurt the passing game several times throughout the contest against Arizona. Though he had 181 yards and a touchdown through the air, he did not seem in sync with the passing game as he was holding on to the ball, once agin, longer than he should have. Luckily his legs are in a league all their own as he continued to have a fantastic running game that saved the team many times. For more on Hundley’s legs, we turn to…
Running Backs: A+
As stated above, Hunley is a big part of the running game which is been the Bruins strong point on offense as of late. He ran 24 times for 131 yards and even took one 29 yards down field. But let us not forget the effort that Paul Perkins as he has is continuing to run hard for the Bruins, though he only had 78 yards, it was enough to give him 1000 rushing yards this season, the first of his career (and he still has three games left). Again, the Bruins have rushed (279) for more yards than they have passing (189).
Nov 1, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins wide receiver Jordan Payton (9) runs for a touchdown after making a catch during the third quarter as Arizona Wildcats cornerback Cam Denson (3) gives chase at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Receivers: B+
This crew was not as effective as the running game, but the receivers did play an integral part in this win. Though they could not get a lot going on due to a combination of Arizona’s stingy defense and Hundley not able to make quick decisions, the passing game was pretty good nonetheless. On the Bruins only receiving touchdown, Hundley hooked up with Jordan Payton for an 70-yard strike. It looked pretty, it was a great play to draw up at that time and they executed. What more can you ask for?
Offensive Line: A
Aside from penalties which plagued the Bruins once again, the offensive line has been working their butts off and it’s been showing as they are not only opening up a massive holes for the run game, but they are also holding down defensive lines, giving Hundley enough time in the back field.
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Defensive Line: B+
It seems that Takkarist McKinley was a huge get for the Bruins who hasn’t even been with UCLA an entire season. He is not getting a lot stat-wise, but he is getting pressure on the opposing offense in every game he has played in. Once again the D-line, as a collective unit, is getting into the backfield more and making opposing quarterbacks think twice about their execution, as was the case with shutting down Arizona’s high-powered offense.
Linebackers: B
If it wasn’t for two very bad penalties on stopped Arizona third downs, this grade would be a lot higher. Myles Jack had committed two very dumb plays on the Wildcat’s first drive. Then end result was Arizona’s only score of the game. Other than that, Jack and Eric Kendricks were swarming the Wildcat offense, whether it was in the open field or in coverage.
Defensive Backs: A-
This was by far the best game for the defensive backs and Jeff Ulbrich‘s nickel package. The longest pass they gave up was worth 17 yards and essentially stopped (with a collective effort of the entire defense) one of the better passing teams in the Pac-12. The contest was topped off with the game-saving interception by Tahaan Goodman who crushed any last hope of Arizona making a comeback.
Nov 1, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive back Ishmael Adams (1) blocks a field goal by Arizona Wildcats place kicker Casey Skowron (41) as punter Drew Riggleman (39) looks on and Bruins linebacker Eric Kendricks (6) assists during the fourth quarter at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Special Teams: A
Ka’imi Fairburn was decent, although he did miss a field goal early in the game. Other than that he was fantastic on kickoffs, kicking the ball out for touchback after touchback. Though the best thing about special teams was the blocked field goal attempt in the last five minuets which helped the Bruins shut out the Wildcats for three consecutive quarters.