UCLA Coach Criticizes Team After USC Loss
UCLA entered Saturday’s game against USC looking to make a statement, and at times, they seemed capable of doing so. The Bruins recorded a season-high eight plays of 20 or more yards, showing their explosive potential. However, their inability to capitalize on these big gains cost them the game, as they fell 19-13 to the Trojans at the Rose Bowl.
Notable offensive moments included a 40-yard run from T.J. Harden, several deep catches by J. Michael Sturdivant, and strong passing plays from Ethan Garbers. Sturdivant, who had his best game of the season, made three catches of over 20 yards, including a 45-yard reception that set up a field goal in the third quarter. Harden finished with 135 all-purpose yards, including three plays of 20 or more yards.
Despite these explosive plays, UCLA struggled to maintain momentum. The Bruins converted just 3 of 11 third-down attempts and failed on all three fourth-down tries. They only made two red-zone trips, scoring one touchdown and one field goal while stalling on several other promising drives.
Offensive Struggles Criticized by Coach
Head coach DeShaun Foster was blunt in his assessment of the offense’s performance. “Offensively, they just didn’t do their part in the game,” Foster said after the game. “It’s a team sport. I just need our offense to be at their best when their best is needed. We’re having problems in the red zone, just having false starts, not being able to make a play.”
The penalties Foster mentioned were another major issue. UCLA was penalized eight times for 65 yards, including multiple false starts that killed key drives. A false start on the USC five-yard line in the third quarter turned a likely touchdown into a field goal attempt.
Despite the offensive struggles, UCLA briefly led 13-9 midway through the third quarter, largely due to their ability to make big plays. Sturdivant’s 45-yard catch helped set up a field goal, and Moliki Matavao’s 10-yard touchdown catch capped an earlier drive. However, UCLA failed to score in the fourth quarter as USC took control with a touchdown and a late field goal.
UCLA outgained USC 376 yards to 346, averaging 6.8 yards per play, showing their ability to move the ball, but they couldn’t finish drives, leaving the defense to pick up the slack.
“Eventually, it’s going to get fixed,” Foster said regarding the team’s discipline issues. “And we will continue to strive in the direction of discipline.”
Looking ahead to their season finale against Fresno State, UCLA will aim to turn their big plays into consistent scoring opportunities. For now, Saturday’s loss serves as a frustrating reminder of what they could have accomplished.
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