Can Jerry Neuheisel and UCLA Keep the Offense Rolling?

The UCLA Bruins have been on fire for the last two weeks, racking up big wins versus Penn State and Michigan State. A lot of credit should got to interim head coach, Tim Skipper who has completely shifted the culture for the Bruins. But, it is the young and upcoming offensive coordinator, Jerry Neuheisel who seems to be creating the most buzz. As the Bruins offense has averaged an astronomical 40 points per game the last two weeks. That is 23 more points then they scored the first four games combined before Neuhesiel took over his role.

When UCLA dropped to 0-4 on the season, changes needed to be made and that is when the Bruins relieved Tino Sunseri of his duties and elected for Neuheisel to call the shots. It was seen as a risky move as Neuheisel has never called plays in his coaching career. But the fear quickly turned into hope as he has sparked energy into the offense that is now clicking on all cylinders. The offense is finding space that seemed to not be there the first four weeks such as this beautiful play design below to Titus Mokiao-Atimalala.

With the renewed hope though also comes fear of regression. More tape will continue to come out on Neuheisel and defensive coordinators can study the film. This will give teams a better chance to scheme and also react to looks that UCLA is running. Nico Iamaleava has been sizzling to the tune of eight touchdowns and a 68.7% completion rate over the last two weeks. He will have to continue that play as UCLA now has gone from bottom dweller to bowl aspirations, with some calling for Big Ten contention talk. Neuheisel will continue to play a key part in generating space for the offense to work and getting his guys in space such as Anthony Woods, Kwazi Gilmer and Jalen Berger.

UCLA will get that chance in their upcoming game to see if the offense will continue rolling or if Neuheisel will slow down. Maryland comes into the Rose Bowl at 4-2 and a 1-2 conference record after a tough 34-31 loss to Nebraska this past weekend. So, UCLA will get a hungry Terrapins team which is great for the Bruins as they want to continue to show they are no fluke in the Big Ten. Time to buckle up as the schedule starts to tighten up Bruins fans!