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The one reason why UCLA defeated No. 7 Penn State that not many are talking about

Now that the celebrations of pulling off an upset that no one really saw coming, here is a main reason why the Bruins pulled off the upset of the college football season by defeating top ten-ranked Penn State that no one is really talking about.
ByRyan Kay|
Penn State Nittany Lions running back Nicholas Singleton (10) is tackled by UCLA Bruins defensive back Rodrick Pleasant (18) during the fourth quarter at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Penn State Nittany Lions running back Nicholas Singleton (10) is tackled by UCLA Bruins defensive back Rodrick Pleasant (18) during the fourth quarter at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Now's a look at one reason why UCLA defeated No. 7 Penn State that not many people are talking about.

UCLA's defense stepped up when needed.

The defense's contribution was crucial in sealing the victory, despite giving up four touchdowns throughout the game. The defense came up with critical stops and key plays when needed, including a forced fumble and recovery early in the third quarter, which helped set up another UCLA touchdown.

With the game on the line in the final minute of the fourth quarter, the Bruins' defense delivered a huge stop on a fourth-and-two at the UCLA 9-yard line about to score, and UCLA's defense got the stop. Defensive back Scooter Jackson tackled Penn State quarterback Drew Allar for a loss, forcing a turnover on downs, and it endedPenn State's chance to take the lead.

The defense stepped up once again in the final seconds of the game when Penn State got the ball back after UCLA purposely took a safety. Before the Nittany Lions took possession, UCLA took a safety on a punt with 17 seconds left, a strategic move that reduced Penn State's possession time and field position on their final drive of the game.

The Bruins were able to exploit Penn State's offensive miscues and caused the Nittany Lions to commit penalties. For example, Penn State was penalized six times, and the Nittany Lions only had 200 yards passing and 157 yards rushing. Those numbers don't jump up as great defensive numbers, but in comparison to how the defense played against Utah and New Mexico, the defense improved, and it showed in this game.

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