UCLA Football Early 2018 Schedule Preview: Cincinnati Bearcats

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OXFORD, OH – SEPTEMBER 16: Head coach Luke Fickell of the Cincinnati Bearcats looks on against the Miami Ohio Redhawks during the first half at Yager Stadium on September 16, 2017 in Oxford, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Go Joe Bruin begins the early 2018 schedule previews with a look at UCLA football’s first opponent in the Chip Kelly era, the Cincinnati Bearcats.

On Saturday, September 1, the UCLA Football team will have a new look, a new feel and a new coach leading the way. On that day, the Bruins begin the Chip Kelly era. Though it is unknown what exactly the coach will do to evolve his offense, we project that it will be an extension of the what he did at Oregon from 2009-12.

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Whatever it is, from the zone read/RPO offense to the “aggressive” defense, it is all going to have to start somewhere and on that first Saturday in September, we will see what Kelly and Co. bring when they take on the Cincinnati Bearcats.

Cincinnati Bearcats

Head Coach: Luke Fickell (2nd year, 4-8)

2017 Record: 4-8, 2-6 American Athletic (4th place, East Division)

2017-18 Bowl Game: N/A

What: UCLA Bruins vs. Cincinnati Bearcats

Where: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA

When: Saturday, Sept. 1

This is going be an interesting matchup for several reasons. UCLA fans will get to see their new coach in action and Cincinnati fans will get to see their coach’s second act. Though things sputtered a bit in Fickell’s first season, the Bearcats are expected to improve, if only slightly.

Not only would Fickell’s team have one season under his tutelage, helping out overall chemistry, but recruiting has been improving as well. Though Fickell won’t immediately see the benefits of those for some time, right now he has to focus on getting this program back on track.

Cincinnati’s Five-Year Win Trend

2017 – ★★★★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
2016 – ★★★★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
2015 – ★★★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆☆
2014- ★★★★★★★★★☆☆☆☆
2013 – ★★★★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Though Cincinnati looks to have a more positive outlook in 2018, it is going to be a rough start as they run into the up-and-coming Bruins.

Though UCLA doesn’t have everything figure out either. If Cincinnati can exploit the Bruins’ weaknesses, they might have a shot, but it will not be easy.