DeShaun Foster Claims His Spot: Key Takeaways from UCLA’s Thrilling Victory Over Nebraska!
The question was focused on a team gaining late-season momentum, but the response shifted to a coach in search of validation.
“Martin hired the right guy,” DeShaun Foster remarked Saturday evening after his team could finally breathe easier.
UCLA had just secured a 27-20 win over Nebraska at Memorial Stadium, marking Foster and the Bruins’ second consecutive victory in a season that’s turning around after a rough start. With three wins in their last four games, UCLA (3-5 overall, 2-4 Big Ten) is positioning itself for a bowl game in Foster’s inaugural season.
When asked about his team’s improvement, Foster redirected the conversation to the athletic director who promoted him from running backs coach to head coach at his alma mater. As Foster mentioned him, Martin Jarmond, seated nearby, chuckled at the acknowledgment.
A lighter atmosphere was welcome, considering how far the team has come since their 1-5 start. Foster then went on to discuss his players, who played strongly in the early stages against the Cornhuskers and managed to make crucial plays to win, despite facing challenges, including multiple unsportsmanlike conduct penalties.
“The team has been performing well and making the right moves,” Foster said. “I’m really excited about this, and we aim to keep improving as the year progresses.”
What wasn’t explicitly stated was that Foster had a successful showdown against Nebraska defensive coordinator Tony White, his former UCLA teammate, who had also been a candidate for the position that Foster ultimately secured despite some fans’ concerns about his inexperience.
On Saturday, the scoreboard reflected the confidence of a new coach at the helm. Here are five key takeaways from the Bruins’ most recent victory:
Support System
Foster wasn’t the only coach enjoying the moment.
Defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe devised a game plan that confused Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola with cleverly disguised blitzes, culminating in a significant hit from linebacker Carson Schwesinger that forced the freshman out of the game.
Offensive line coach Juan Castillo oversaw a unit that allowed quarterback Ethan Garbers ample time to shine, leading to another standout performance.
Running backs coach Marcus Thomas guided a rushing attack that surpassed 100 yards for the first time this season, thanks in part to Garbers’ impressive 57-yard run.
Cornerbacks coach Kodi Whitfield’s meticulous approach was evident when Kaylin Moore stayed engaged with the play, ultimately snagging a game-saving interception after the ball deflected off a slot receiver’s knee.
The quickly assembled coaching staff was earning its accolades as the team shows signs of progress.
Hold the Line
There’s a reason Garbers suddenly resembles the quarterback many anticipated before the season began.
It’s because he’s been given more than just a second or two to make a throw.
UCLA’s revamped offensive line, featuring tackles Garrett DiGiorgio and Niki Prongos, guards Spencer Holstege and Josh Carlin, and center Sam Yoon, is becoming increasingly effective as the season progresses.
Garbers faced minimal pressure on Saturday, being sacked only twice.
“They’re doing a fantastic job, and I think coach Castillo doesn’t get enough credit,” Garbers remarked after completing 17 of 25 passes for 219 yards and two touchdowns without throwing an interception. “He prepares us well throughout the week, providing the right looks and ensuring we’re all aligned. Ultimately, it comes down to our communication out there and figuring things out together.”
Striving for Discipline
Nebraska’s three scoring drives shared a common factor: each was extended by an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on the Bruins.
Defensive tackle Sitiveni Havili Kaufusi and linebackers Oluwafemi Oladejo and Ale Kaho faced scrutiny after receiving those unnecessary penalties.
“A lot can happen in a game—someone might hit you or tug on your facemask,” Foster explained, “but you can’t retaliate; the second person always gets caught in these situations. You have to be smarter and stay disciplined for the benefit of the team.”
If this lack of discipline isn’t addressed in the final month of the season, it could lead to losses.
What Just Happened?
Foster’s recent trend of bold decision-making took a step back against Nebraska as he opted for a more conservative strategy.
In the second quarter, instead of going for it on fourth and inches at Nebraska’s eight-yard line, Foster chose to attempt a field goal.
“I didn’t want to give them any momentum,” said Foster regarding the Cornhuskers. “The fans were getting energized, and the crowd was really into the game in those moments, so I aimed to keep them out of it.”
Later, as UCLA attempted to run down the clock, Foster chose to punt instead of going for it on fourth and one at the Bruins’ 34-yard line. Nebraska regained possession with 2 minutes and 22 seconds remaining, but Moore made a crucial interception to save the game.
Scheduled Success
UCLA’s remaining schedule isn’t instilling fear in their opponents.
The only team still in contention for the Big Ten title—barely—is Iowa (6-3, 4-2). Washington (5-4, 3-3) has faced a rocky first season under coach Jedd Fisch. USC (4-5, 2-5) finds itself trailing its crosstown rival in the conference standings, while Fresno State (5-4) just suffered a loss to Hawaii.
With no more games against powerhouses like Penn State or Oregon, the Bruins are starting to think realistically about a bowl game.
“We’re not focusing on that outcome,” Foster stated. “This season marks my first year here, and we had that tough stretch we had to navigate. Now we’re in this middle phase, playing against these blue-collar teams; they’re tough and have a distinct style. At the end of the season, we’ll tackle our West Coast run, so we’re just trying to get through this blue-collar segment and hopefully keep winning.”