Jalen Berger's breakout moment happened for the UCLA Bruins in their game in Michigan State. He totaled 113 yards through the air and on the ground found the end zone three times on the day. He averaged 7.5 yards whenever he touched the ball, compared to 3.8 yards in the first five weeks. The senior showcased his talents against his former school such as this beautiful play design on a direct snap.
Jalen Berger puts 6 on the board for @UCLAFootball.
— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) October 11, 2025
📺: @BigTenNetwork pic.twitter.com/d8GIIZJfWI
Jerry Neuheisel has found ways to utilize the running back in open space which has helped the run game and pass game. Berger uses his wiggle well in the field to play much faster then his 4.6 40 yard dash time suggests. He also has great receiving abilities as he keeps his hips fluid and gets into open space.
JALEN BERGER, HAVE A DAY 💥
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) October 11, 2025
That's three TDs for the @UCLAFootball running back.
📺: BTN pic.twitter.com/x1S7e8lpK0
When you have a back that can not only run but block and pass catch, you have to use that to your advantage. With UCLA's complete 360 turn on how they're operating on offense, this has breathed a new life into Berger. He is showing the capabilities that he has to help out Nico Iamaleava.
Maryland will prove to be a tough test for the Bruins and will be interesting to see if Berger can keep up the strong play. Maryland ranks in the top 25 in a lot of defensive categories including rush yards per play. Mike Locksley and his team have most likely studied the Michigan State game and seen what Berger can do when he has the ball in his hands.
Jalen Berger was a 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐡𝐢𝐭 in the Bruins' 38-13 win at Michigan State 🙌🔥@JalenBerger's career-high-tying three touchdowns earns him Chargel Player of the Game!#GoBruins pic.twitter.com/6wuJ5Gnfso
— UCLA Football (@UCLAFootball) October 12, 2025
UCLA will need another big game from him as they look to win their third straight game and move to 3-1 in Big Ten play. With Neuheisel calling the plays on offense, he can operate with the space and less congestion to make that happen and keep the momentum rolling.
