UCLA Football: Position battle breakdown against San Diego State

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Sep 2, 2023; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Carson Steele (33) is congratulated by wide receiver Kyle Ford (19) and offensive lineman Spencer Holstege (74) after running for a touchdown in the first half against the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

Special Teams: UCLA

UCLA’s RJ Lopez is 3-for-3 on extra points and 2-for-2 on field goals in this young season. San Diego State’s Jack Browning is also perfect on extra points, but he missed a field goal from 38 yards out against Ohio.

The Bruins have also been far better about downing punts inside the 20-yard line this season. Every Will Powers punt against Coastal Carolina pinned the opponent deep in their own territory. On the other side, Browning has punted eight times in two games, and just one landed inside the 20.

Overall: UCLA

San Diego State has fielded some great teams in recent years that have featured some electric weapons, but this year’s squad doesn’t have the same upside as some of those highlight years. There isn’t a Donnel Pumphrey or a Rashaad Penny walking out of the tunnel this season.

Let’s make one thing very clear: UCLA may hold the advantage in most of these position battles, but that doesn’t mean this will be a blowout or a cakewalk. San Diego State is a well-coached football team, and they’ve pulled off wins over more talented teams before, UCLA has to take this opponent seriously.

If the Bruins are able to run away with this one, it will be an extremely encouraging sign.

Next. Position Grades for UCLA's game against Coastal Carolina. dark