PASADENA—UCLA rolled on Saturday, November 2 at the chilly Rose Bowl, smacking the visiting Colorado Buffaloes, 31-14. These Bruins have changed the narrative; once on life support after a dismal start, the Bruins (4-5 overall, 4-2 PAC-12), are riding high after three dominating victories. Its the first time since 2015, the Bruins have enjoyed a three-game winning streak
It was a Blitzkrieg beginning-UCLA jumped out to an early 17-0 lead in the 1st quarter. Scoring on their first three possessions, including a 16-yard TD strike to Devin Asiasi. Following a Krys Barnes interception, Bruins Quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson threw a 45-yard touchdown bomb to fan favorite, Ethan Fernea.
“I have found him the whole week at practice, it was our best week of preparation,” said Thompson-Robinson post game. Thompson-Robinson – who was 21-of-28 passing – completed 10 of his first 11.
The catalyst of this stunning turnaround is the defense. Holding the potent Buffs defense to under 300 yards, the Bruins put pressure on Colorado QB Steven Montez. UCLA sacked Montez four times while recording a whopping seven tackles for loss.
“Its great to get pressure on the quarterback without having to blitz,” explained Bruins head coach Chip Kelly to Canyon News at the postgame conference.
PAC-12 rushing leader, Josh Kelley battered the Colorado defense, for 126 yards to be exact. Kelly has eclipsed 100 plus yards four times this season. His 35-yard jaunt late in the 4th quarter to the end zone was the backbreaker.
Amazingly, UCLA controls their own destiny in the congested PAC-12 South. Next week is a bye, than the Bruins visit the No. 9 Utah Utes on Saturday, November 16. Loming ahead is the crosstown rivalry with USC at the Coliseu on November 23. Which may determine the PAC-12 South champion, only time will tell.
