UCLA vs Indiana halftime analysis and thoughts

UCLA vs Indiana has reached halftime, and we are now 30 minutes in with 30 minutes to go. We break down the first half with analysis on what is working and what not is working. Hint there is a lot that is not working. The Bruins will have 30 more minutes to figure this out as they are in a gigantic 35-3 hole.

UCLA has a very rocky start to begin the game. Their pass protection struggles to keep Nico upright. First play of the game is a sack. Second play of the game Indiana shows their elite defense with the pick 6. UCLA seems frazzled with the raucous crowd.

Then the positive comes! UCLA gets good pressure on Fernando Mendoza and forces the tipped ball for an interception. UCLA often stalls again, and tries to do a fake punt, which is immediately sniffed out by Indiana. The talent difference in positions is showing.

UCLA is having trouble keeping up with the speed of Indiana at all positions. There is a reason this team is 7-0 and one of the favorites to win the College Football Playoff. Elijah Sarratt is an elite receiver and Roman Hemby has a ton of wiggle between the gaps and on the outside. UCLA has played well on first and second down but cannot get off the field on third downs.

Kevin Coyle will need to regroup and disguise blitzes and man coverage. Indiana is speedy and will not lose many 1 on 1’s. Need to get stops and get off the field. Mendoza cannot have five seconds sitting in the pocket. You have to build on consistency with stops and not go 1-10 on third downs.

UCLA did have a positive heading into half as their offense started to gain some momentum. A 44-yard field goal by Mateen Bhaghani helped UCLA keep from throwing up a donut first half.