UCLA Football: Position Grades for win over San Diego State

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Sep 9, 2023; San Diego, California, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Darius Muasau (53) celebrates after intercepting a pass during the second half against the San Diego State Aztecs at Snapdragon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

Defensive Line: A

It was another stout night for the Bruins’ front. San Diego State was stifled in every facet of the offense, and the anaconda grip only tightened as the night went on. The Aztecs rushed for just 63 yards on 33 carries in this game.

Laiatu Latu was the highlight of this group again. He registered a sack and 2.5 tackles for loss in this dominant defensive effort.

Linebacker: A

Oluwafemi Oladejo was tremendous on Saturday night, leading the team with ten tackles. Next to him, Darius Muasau had a night as well, registering six tackles, a sack, an interception, and a tackle for loss.

Last week, the defensive front was the star of the show. Against the Aztecs, the linebacking corps took the spotlight on the way to holding San Diego State to just ten points.

Secondary: A

The pass defense that looked shaky against Coastal Carolina was absolutely lights out on Saturday night. Aztec quarterback Jaylen Mayden went 19-of-37 for just 196 yards, a touchdown, and three interceptions. When the running game was shut down and they were forced to throw, the Bruin defensive backs held down their end of the bargain.

Alex Johnson was the headliner of the night, picking Mayden off twice.

This was an encouraging night overall for the Bruins defense, but this group’s success was the most important aspect of the game.