UCLA is heading into its most important game of the season. With just two games left on the schedule, the Bruins have no choice but to win both to secure a bowl berth.
The first of those must-wins comes against their biggest rival, USC, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Bruins not only need the victory to stay in the hunt for postseason play, but they’ll also be looking for bragging rights in this fierce rivalry.
There’s no lack of motivation heading into this matchup.
“There’s not much to say to them,” UCLA coach DeShaun Foster remarked after the Bruins’ loss to Washington on Friday. “They know what kind of game we have ahead. They should be fired up and ready to get on the field. Then, after that, we have another home game against Fresno State, so there’s plenty to look forward to. If we want to keep our season going and play in a bowl game, we’ve got to take it one week at a time. We’ve got two chances to get to six wins, and we’re going to give it everything we’ve got.”
This historic rivalry will have added significance this year, as it marks the first time the Bruins and Trojans will face off as Big Ten rivals.
In their last meeting, UCLA defeated USC 38-20 on the road, continuing a competitive back-and-forth between the two teams, who have split their last four matchups.
Though the Bruins were riding a three-game winning streak heading into their game with Washington, the loss has slowed their momentum at a crucial juncture of the season. But even with that setback, UCLA fans can count on their team being fully motivated for next week’s rivalry game.
“We’ll watch the film, learn from it, and flush it,” said UCLA quarterback Ethan Garbers after the loss. “We’ve got a huge week ahead, and we’re looking forward to these last two opportunities to play.”
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