USC too much for Utah to handle

By

-

January 14, 2018

NCAA BKC 2018: Utah Utes vs USC Trojans JAN 14 — January 14, 2018 Los Angeles, CA USC Trojans guard Jordan McLaughlin (11) driving during the Utah Utes vs USC Trojans at Galen Center on January 14, 2018. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Los Angeles, CA – USC started the game scorching hot from beyond the arc, draining eight-of-12 three-pointers in the first 10 minutes.

The Trojans made a season-high 14 3-pointers en route to a dominating 84-67 win over Utah on Sunday at the Galen Center. The victory snapped an eight-game losing streak to the Utes.

“That was a good win against a good Utah team,” USC coach Andy Enfield said. “To force turnovers and get 84 points is a good thing.”

USC completely dominated the Utes from start to finish. The Trojans played loose and always seemed to find the open man as they took a 32-13 lead on a Jonah Matthews 3-pointer midway through the first half.

January 14, 2018 Los Angeles, CA
USC Trojans guard Derryck Thornton (5) driving during the Utah Utes vs USC Trojans at Galen Center on January 14, 2018. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Matthews led USC with 17 points and finished 3-for-5 from 3-points range.

“I felt good tonight,” Matthews said. “I hit my first one and my teammates kept finding me.”

Defensively, the Trojans held Utah to 32 percent shooting from the field and forced 11 turnovers to take a commanding 46-22 lead at halftime. USC made most of their opportunities, scoring 15 points off turnovers in the first half while draining nine three-pointers and shooting 60 percent.

In the last five games, USC has registered 45 steals and forced 89 turnovers.

January 14, 2018 Los Angeles, CA
Utah Utes forward David Collette (13) rocking Kuzmania shirts during the Utah Utes vs USC Trojans at Galen Center on January 14, 2018. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

“It (not having De’Anthony Melton) hurt our defense in the beginning of the year,” Enfield said. “Now we’re playing very good team defense, but we still have room for improvement.”

USC announced Melton would be held out for the 2017-18 season after the school determined that a close friend received an extra benefit.

“We made a statement tonight, for De’Anthony and for Utah,” Matthews said. “They were talking trash to us. We tried to keep our composure and let the scoreboard talk for us.”

USC will hit the road to visit Oregon on Thursday, Jan. 18. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2.

University of Arizona hires Kevin Sumlin as head football coach

By

Press Release

-

January 14, 2018

NCAA Football 2016: UCLA vs Texas A&M SEPT 3, 2016 — Kevin Sumlin coach of Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field in College Station, TX on September 3, 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

Former Coach Sumlin of Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field in College Station, TX on September 3, 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

Tucson AZ- Former Texas A&M head coach Kevin Sumlin has reached an agreement to become the next head coach at Arizona, according to multiple reports.

Sumlin was fired by the Aggies in November after six seasons at the helm. The 53-year-old, who also spent four seasons as the coach at Houston, has amassed a career record of 86-43 as a head coach.

Sirius XM first reported Sumlin’s hiring Sunday afternoon. Sports Illustrated also reported the news.

Sumlin will replace Rich Rodriguez, who was fired earlier this month. USA TODAY Sports reported that the Wildcats grew uncomfortable with the direction of the football program amid allegations of workplace misconduct. Rodriguez said in a statement released through his attorney that the university had investigated claims of harassment by a former administrative assistant, who threatened a $7.5 million lawsuit.

Arizona was believed to be targeting Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo for its vacancy, but The Arizona Daily Star confirmed Sunday that Niumatalolo would stay at Navy.

Sumlin will inherit a Wildcats team led by rising junior quarterback Khalil Tate, who threw for 1,591 yards and ran for 1,411 more as a sophomore in 2017.

USC back on track with win over Colorado

By

Carlos Gonzalez

-

January 10, 2018

NCAA BKC 2018: Colorado Buffaloes vs USC Trojans JAN — January 10, 2018 Los Angeles, CA USC Trojans guard Shaqquan Aaron (0) on a layup during the Colorado Buffaloes vs USC Trojans at Galen Center on January 10, 2018. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Los Angeles, CA- On a night where USC star players Beanie Boatwright and Chimezie Metu struggled offensively, the Trojans had enough firepower to rout Colorado 70-58 at the Galen Center Wednesday night.

Guard Jordan McLaughlin went a perfect 4-4 from 3-point range and finished with 20 points to lead the Trojans in scoring.

“Jordan knows he needs to do both,” said USC head coach, Andy Enfield “He is an opportunistic guy. Everyone has an off night but is nice to be able to win a game when your two leading scorers are 4 of 22.”

January 10, 2018 Los Angeles, CA
USC Trojans guard Jordan McLaughlin (11) during the Colorado Buffaloes vs USC Trojans at Galen Center on January 10, 2018. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

After Sunday’s defeat at the hands of Stanford on a half-court buzzer beater, the Trojans were eager to get back on the floor to correct their errors.

“We have to just move on after every game, win or lose. Learn from your mistakes and move on. It was good to get out here and get a win,” said McLaughlin.

Metu shot 3 of 12 from the floor but still managed to pitch in 14 points. He was the only other player in double figured in scoring for USC.

January 10, 2018 Los Angeles, CA
USC Trojans guard Jonah Mathews (2) and USC Trojans guard Jordan McLaughlin (11) during a free throw for the Colorado Buffaloes vs USC Trojans at Galen Center on January 10, 2018. (Photo by Jevone Moore / Cal Sport Media)

The Trojans shot 9-17 from the 3-point line. Jonah Matthews finished the game with 9 points for USC with all three of his shots coming from behind the 3-point line.

USC held a lead for a majority of the first half but what once was a 9 point lead turned into a 32-30 deficit with 3:25 left in the half. A couple of baskets by McLauglin and Boatwright’s only made shot of the game gave USC a 38-34 halftime lead.

The Trojans were able to pull away in the second half after a couple of Matthews and McLauglin 3-pointers.

Colorado had 22 turnovers, which lead to 25 point for the Trojans.

January 10, 2018 Los Angeles, CA
USC Trojans guard Jonah Mathews (2) going up for a shot during the Colorado Buffaloes vs USC Trojans at Galen Center on January 10, 2018. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

“We got our hands on a lot of basketballs. I thought our man was good, our zone was excellent and the guys really played hard tonight with a sense of purpose,” said Enfield

George King led Colorado in scoring with 21 points.

USC will welcome Utah on Sunday.

In second overtime Georgia outlast Oklahoma to advance

By

Jevone Moore

-

January 1, 2018

NCAA College Football Playoffs 2018: Georgia Bulldogs vs Oklahoma Sooners — January 1, 2018 Pasadena CA, Pregame before the NCAA College Football Playoffs 2018 between Georgia Bulldogs vs Oklahoma Sooners at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Ca. on January 1, 2018. Jevone Moore / Cal Sport Media

Pasadena, CA – In second overtime tied 48-48 from the Georgia 27 yard line, Austin Seibert Oklahoma placekicker had his attempt blocked by Carter Lorenzo.

Then two plays later from the same spot 27 yard line running back Sony Michel raced around the left side to eventually walk in end zone for the 54-48 victory in the College Football Semifinal game on New Year’s Day.

“I believed in you (Michel)….,” said Georgia head coach Kirby Smart after the game on the field as they two embraced for a victory hug.

January 1, 2018 Pasadena CA,
Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) being slowed down in the NCAA College Football Playoffs 2018 between Georgia Bulldogs vs Oklahoma Sooners at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Ca. on January 1, 2018. Jevone Moore

This CFP game lived up to all the hype that was built up in No. 2 vs No.3 match up that included Heisman trophy winning quarterback Baker Mayfield that left it all out on the field for his last college game.

“Oh, I can’t believe it’s over, said Mayfield, “It’s been a wild ride.”

Georgia game plan was to stop the run in the second half. At the half they were down 31-17 after kicking a late field goal to cut the lead down to 14 points.

“Absolutely. We can stop the run first; try to make them one dimensional.” said coach Kirby Smart

January 1, 2018 Pasadena CA,
Georgia Bulldogs tight end Charlie Woerner (89) making a catch at the NCAA College Football Playoffs 2018 between Georgia Bulldogs vs Oklahoma Sooners at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Ca. on January 1, 2018. Jevone Moore

Smart knew that Mayfield would have to be the one to beat his Bulldogs, and he didn’t only throwing for 87 yards in second half to finish the day with 287 yards with 2 touchdowns.

Pretty interesting that Smart dared Oklahoma to test his Db’s but they couldn’t capitalizes on the extra time of possession.

In overtime, the crowd and Georgia’s defensive coordinator had to be surprised that coach Lincoln Riley didn’t put the game in Mayfield hands.

In the end Georgia freshman Jake Fromm was the victor throwing for 210 yards with 2 touchdowns.

January 1, 2018 Pasadena CA,
Georgia Bulldogs running back Sony Michel (1) on way to a 75 yard touchdown in the first half of the NCAA College Football Playoffs 2018 between Georgia Bulldogs vs Oklahoma Sooners at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Ca. on January 1, 2018. Jevone Moore

The real hero was part of a double headed running duo lead by offensive MVP Michel who ran for 181 yards with 3 touchdowns.

“I mean, when I scored a touchdown, I knew it was over.” said Michel, “We finally get a chance to play for something big.”

So after this Georgia victory, they will now play in the College Football Playoff National Championship on Monday January 8, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia verse Alabama.

January 1, 2018 Pasadena CA,
Rose Bowl stadium full for the NCAA College Football Playoffs 2018 between Georgia Bulldogs vs Oklahoma Sooners at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Ca. on January 1, 2018. Jevone Moore

January 1, 2018 Pasadena CA,
Georgia Bulldogs UGA the 10th at the NCAA College Football Playoffs 2018 between Georgia Bulldogs vs Oklahoma Sooners at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Ca. on January 1, 2018. Jevone Moore

Penn State defeats Washington in PlayStation Fiesta Bowl

By

Carlos Gonzalez

-

December 30, 2017

PlayStation Fiesta Bowl - Penn State v Washington — Myles Gaskin (9) of the Washington Huskies surrounded during the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 30, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona.(Photo by Leon Bennett/fi360 News)

Glendale, AZ – Although the score may not be indicative of the final outcome, Penn State took charge early defeating University of Washington 35-28 in the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl.

“We were fortunate to get out of here with a win,” said Penn State head coach, James Franklin. “I’ve been doing this long enough, I know if you turn the ball over you are going to have a hard time winning.”

Trace McSorley and the Nittany Lions came out motivated to move the ball threw the air and challenge Washington’s secondary.

Trace McSorley (9) of the Penn State Nittany Lions running during the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 30, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona.(Photo by Leon Bennett/fi360 News)

Penn State took a quick 7-0 lead on a 48 yard touchdown pass from McSorley to Daesean Hamilton.

After not being able to cash in on a McSorley interception, Penn State would extend its lead to 14 on a 2-yard run by Saquon Barkley.

Washington was able to chip away at Penn State’s lead to begin the 2nd quarter. A trick play set the Huskies on the 1-yard line and on the next play, RB Myles Gaskin capitalized for the touchdown .

DaeSean Hamilton (5) of the Penn State Nittany Lions scoring during the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 30, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona.(Photo by Leon Bennett/fi360 News)

Washington’s defense was unable to slow down the Nittany Lions offense, who were getting anything they wanted on the ground and through the air. Barkely tacked on to Penn State’s lead with the longest run in Fiesta Bowl history. Barkely put the Nittany Lions up 28-7 on a 92-yard run.

Penn State ended the first half with 367 yards on offense to Washington’s 136. McSorley also threw 24 times completing 18 for 219 yards.

The Huskies came out for the second half with more Rhythm on the offense of end. Washington pulled within one touchdown.

Jake Browning found Aaron Fuller from 28-yards to give the Huskies a fighting chance 28-21.

Washington’s defense on the other hand still had no answers for McSorley and the Nittany Lions offense. The Huskies 7 point deficit didn’t last long. McSorley started Penn State’s first possession of the second half with 24-yard scramble. Then, McSorley connected with Daesean Hamilton for a 24-yards and Hamilton’s second touchdown.

head coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions during the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 30, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona.(Photo by Leon Bennett/fi360 News)

The Huskies made the game interesting with a shot to tie the game after a Penn State missed field goal with 44 seconds left in the fourth quarter. An interception by Pettis on a lateral pass ended any chance of a Washington comeback.

Penn State converted on 13 of 17 third down plays.

“That was something that the last couple years we really wanted to improve on and emphasize in the off-season,” said Franklin. “We were fantastic on third down on offense today.”

Penn State made life difficult for Browning who seemed to pressured every time he steeped back to pass. He was sacked 4 times.

McSorley finished the game 32 of 41 for 342 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. Barkley finished with 18 carries for 145 yards and two touchdowns.

Penn State boost its record to 7-0 all time in the Fiesta Bowl.

Washington can’t overcome slow start in loss to Penn State

By

Eric Ramos

-

December 30, 2017

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: DEC 30 Fiesta Bowl - Washington v Penn St — GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 30: Trace McSorley (9) of the Penn State Nittany Lions in the game between the Washington Huskies and the Penn State Nittany Lions on December 30, 2017 at the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, AZ. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)

GLENDALE, AZ – DECEMBER 30: Jake Browning (3) of the Washington Huskies being hit by Shane Simmons (34) of the Penn State Nittany Lions in the game between the Washington Huskies and the Penn State Nittany Lions on December 30, 2017 at the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, AZ. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News

Glendale, AZ – Once the first quarter was over, the blowout seemed evident.

Washington, plagued by a slow start, trailed 28-7 by the second quarter. The Huskies defense allowed 367 total yards to Penn State in the first half while the offense only managed to get 136.

On the ground, Huskies running back Myles Gaskin was held to 17 yards and a touchdown while quarterback Jake Browning was limited to 7-of-11 for 67 yards.

GLENDALE, AZ – DECEMBER 30: Saquon Barkley (26) of the Penn State Nittany Lions in the game between the Washington Huskies and the Penn State Nittany Lions on December 30, 2017 at the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, AZ. (Photo by Jordon Kelly / fi360 News)

However, Washington never gave up. They still had a chance to tie it with just under a minute left but three straight incomplete passes and a catch which was lateraled and intercepted sealed the 35-28 loss to No. 9 Penn State in the Fiesta Bowl on Saturday.

Washington coach Chris Peterson has led the program to successful back-to-back season. They were in the College Football Playoff a season ago and a New Year’s Six bowl this season. Both bowl games ended in losses but the Huskies are heading in the right direction.

Peterson said it’s not just about executing on the football field, it’s about what the culture is like on a day-to-day basis.

“These guys understand what it’s going to take,” Peterson said. “It’s hard to win 10 games and make it to the playoffs but they’ve had a taste enough that they understand that.”

Penn State took an early 7-0 lead on Trace McSorley’s 48-yard touchdown pass to DaeSean Hamilton. After Saquan Barkley’s 2-yard touchdown run, Washington got on the board with a 1-yard keeper by Browning.

DeAndre Thompkins’ 34-yard catch set up a 1-yard touchdown run by Miles Sanders, giving the Nittany Lions a 21-7 lead in the second quarter.

After a Washington punt, Barkley scored on a 92-yard touchdown run to give Penn State a commanding 28-7 lead. Barkley’s touchdown run is the longest in Fiesta Bowl history.

The Huskies defense led the nation in run defense during the regular season, allowing 92 yards a game but Barkley rushed 145 yards and two touchdowns.

“They just made plays,’ Washington linebacker Keishawn Bierria said. “Third downs are money downs, we have to get off the field. They got the better of us tonight.”

GLENDALE, AZ – DECEMBER 30:Jake Browning (3) of the Washington Huskies throwing in the game between the Washington Huskies and the Penn State Nittany Lions on December 30, 2017 at the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, AZ. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 news)

Washington caught a break when Penn State muffed the punt and the Huskies were able to recover the fumble. With the ball at the Nittany Lions’ 33, the Huskies capitalized on the good field position as Gaskin scored on a 13-yard run to cut the lead, 28-14, heading into the half.

The 11-seeded Huskies opened the third quarter with a 13-play, 80-yard drive, capped by a Browning 28-yard touchdown pass to Aaron Fuller.

Although the Huskies were being outgained on offense, they got within seven points twice in the game but could not overcome costly turnovers.

December 30, 2017 Glendale, AZ,
NCAA Football 2017 Fiesta Bowl: Keishawn Bierria (7) of the Washington Huskies at line of scrimmage during the Washington Huskies vs Penn State Nittany Lions at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, AZ on December 30, 2017. Jevone Moore / fi360 News

“This team is going to be way better next year,” Bierria said. “I could do nothing but be proud (of the younger guys).”

USC lacks big plays in the Cotton Bowl Classic

By

Ariawna Talton

-

December 30, 2017

Ohio State Buckeyes players celebrate in the endzone during the 82nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic between USC Trojans vs Ohio State Buckeyes at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, TX on December 29, 2017. (Photo by Jerry Kelly / fi360 News)

Dallas, TX – Perhaps a college bowl game with no playoff ramifications has never been quite so compelling on paper.

The Buckeyes were the victors and proudly touted the Scovell Trophy. The final score of 24-7 left an audience of 67,510 with much to be desired from the 82^nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.

USC, winners of the Pac-12 Conference this season entered the Cotton Bowl Classic slotted No. 8.

Ohio State won the Big 10 Conference and entered the bowl game as No. 5.

Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback JT Barrett running during the 82nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic between USC Trojans vs Ohio State Buckeyes at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, TX on December 29, 2017. (Photo by Jerry Kelly/ fi360 News)

The first half was completely dominated by Ohio State, although USC boasted better total yard statistics. While Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett completed five of his nine pass attempts in the first half for a total of only 75 yards, he added 67 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Despite two turnovers, Ohio State limited the Trojans to just one scoring run.

Both USC and Ohio State entered Friday tonight’s competition with convincing records of 11-2. Neither team impressed the College Football Playoff selection committee enough to make the playoff.

Still, a USC and Ohio State battle promised to be an interesting matchup of two storied college teams. Surprisingly, this game lacked a great deal of big play flair. Fans for both teams packed AT&T Stadium in anticipation of a high scoring affair and several deep route completions, especially with Ohio State All-American cornerback Denzel Ward electing to skip the bowl game. Ward will forgo his final season and enter the NFL Draft.

The score at halftime was 24 – 7. The score with minutes remaining in the final quarter was still 24 – 7.

USC Trojans ready for battle before the 82nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic between USC Trojans vs Ohio State Buckeyes at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, TX on December 29, 2017. (Photo by Ariawna Talton/ fi360 News)

USC quarterback Sam Darnold’s first half numbers were completely deceptive. Darnold passed for 170 yards, but was under pressure much of the first half. The Trojan offensive line didn’t do its best job protecting the quarterback, resulting in three first half sacks.

The most consistent dynamic was the Ohio State run defense and their pressure on the quarterback.

“We’ve got the best D-Line coach in America and he had them ready to rock and roll,” said Ohio State Coach Urban Meyer, “You saw what I saw – if you don’t let him (the quarterback) set his feet you have a chance.”

Barrett’s second half statistics didn’t vary much from the first half; however, he did break a total offensive yardage record previously held by Drew Brees. At the midpoint of the final quarter, Barrett had 12,701 total offensive yards for his career.

In dissecting the statistics of this game, the outcome doesn’t add up. Barrett passed for only 114 yards and his team won. Darnold passed for 356 yards and his team only scored a single rushing touchdown.

Someone had to want it more for the entirety of the ballgame. USC struggled to play catch-up from the initial quarter. Even some of their most advantageous passes and spectacular receptions resulted in non-scoring drives. There was just no making up for the turnovers.

“Whenever you turn the ball over that much – it’s hard to win games,” said Darnold.

Before tonight’s game, the Trojans were 5–3 in bowl matchups against the Buckeyes. There were indeed several opportunities for USC to make a comeback, but turnovers and the inability to convert on key third downs made the game fairly easy for Ohio State.

Washington State can’t slow down Michigan State

By

Jevone Moore

-

December 28, 2017

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: DEC 28 Holiday Bowl - Washington St v Michigan St — SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 28:Holiday Bowl Trophy on display during the game between the Washington State Cougars and the Michigan State Spartans on December 28, 2017 at the Holiday Bowl in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)

SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 28: Brian Lewerke stepping away from the tackle in the game between the Washington State Cougars and the Michigan State Spartans on December 28, 2017 at the Holiday Bowl in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)

San Diego, CA – The Washington State Cougars had no answer for Michigan State Spartan quarterback Brian Lewerke in their Holiday Bowl defeat 42-17 Thursday night.

Lewerke ran for 73 yards and threw for another 213 yards with 3 touchdowns to leave his mark on the game. He also took home the Offensive MVP for the game, that was coach Mark Dantonio 100th career win.

“I wouldn’t choose any other coach in the nation to play for,” said Lewerke.

SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 28: LJ Scott running over the Cougars defense in the game between the Washington State Cougars and the Michigan State Spartans on December 28, 2017 at the Holiday Bowl in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)

The Spartans did the most damage before the half leading 21-3 at the break. Running back LJ Scott led all rushers with 110 yards and 2 touchdowns. He ran hard as the Spartans ate up the clock to shorten the game.

“I will be back at East Lansing playing another season with my dogs,” said Scott.

With Luke Falk being a late scratch for Washington State the weight of the offensive fell on Sophomore Tyler Hilinski for his first career start.

SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 28: Washington State smothered by Michigan State in the game between the Washington State Cougars and the Michigan State Spartans on December 28, 2017 at the Holiday Bowl in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)

The Cougars went three and out on offensive that set the tone for the game. The Spartans defense applied enough pressure to keep the Cougars on edge.

In the second half Hilinski made a few key throws to freshman wide receiver Davontavean Martin who caught the only 2 touchdowns for 51 yards for the Cougars.

SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 28: Tyler Hilinski passing under pressure in the game between the Washington State Cougars and the Michigan State Spartans on December 28, 2017 at the Holiday Bowl in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)

Cougars coach Mike Leach will be without senior and career passing leader Falk next year that helped him to 25-13 last three years coming into this game.

This Spartan team who had 10 victories this year compared to just 3 wins last year will be a team to reckon with having 77 underclassman.

“We finished fantastic,” said Lewerke, “We going to keep growing and keep working.”

SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 28: Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio wins 100th career game after the Washington State Cougars and the Michigan State Spartans on December 28, 2017 at the Holiday Bowl in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)

UCLA allows K-State to run wild in the desert

By

Jevone Moore

-

December 26, 2017

Tempe, AZ – UCLA’s determination and heart stayed in the locker room at halftime of the Cactus Bowl falling to Kansas State 35-17 Tuesday night at Chase Field.

Kansas State imposed it’s will rushing for 355 yards on the Bruins defense led by backup quarterback Alex Delton.

“Obviously, very disappointed in the final result,” said coach Jedd Fisch, “I think at the end they kind wore us down a little bit.”

December 26, 2017 Phoenix, AZ
NCAA Football Cactus 2017: Alex Barnes (34) of the Kansas State Wildcats taking handoff in the endzone during the Kansas State Wildcats vs UCLA Bruins at Chase Field, in Phoenix on December 26, 2017 (Absolute Complete Photographer & Company Credit: Jevone Moore / fi360 News)

Delton came in the game as change of pace for a series at end of 1st quarter and ripped off 68 yard rushing touchdown. After K-State saw how much trouble UCLA defense had with a running quarterback their game plan changed fast.

After halftime Delton went on to carve up the Bruins for two more touchdowns finishing with team high 160 yards, 3 touchdowns. This was the Bruins fifth time allowing a team to rush for over 300 yards.

December 26, 2017 Phoenix, AZ
NCAA Football Cactus 2017: Alex Delton (5) of the Kansas State Wildcats running wild during the Kansas State Wildcats vs UCLA Bruins at Chase Field, in Phoenix on December 26, 2017 (Absolute Complete Photographer & Company Credit: Jevone Moore / fi360 News)

Devon Modster in relief of Josh Rosen held out game due to concussion protocol played a good first half. He finished the game throwing for 295 yards completing 21-34 passing with two touchdowns. In second half just not being in the same rhythm Modster only threw for 80 yards when the team was behind.

“I think I just threw too many incomplete passes,” said Modster, “He (Rosen) really helped me out a lot today.”

The Bruins were able to have receivers Jordan Lasley 8 catches for 128 yards, Theo Howard with 8 catches 119 yards and each with a touchdown.

December 26, 2017 Phoenix, AZ
NCAA Football Cactus 2017: Theo Howard (14) of the UCLA Bruins just missing a Modster pass during the Kansas State Wildcats vs UCLA Bruins at Chase Field, in Phoenix on December 26, 2017 (Absolute Complete Photographer & Company Credit: Jevone Moore / fi360 News)

K-State defense really stepped up stopping UCLA’s running game all game only allowing them a net 69 yards. Then begin to add more pressure in passing game that made the timing off.

Now that the Cactus Bowl is over UCLA coach Jedd Fisch will be relived and make way for full time Chip Kelly era.

There will be a lot of moving parts in upcoming weeks with players, coaches, and office staff. So now the Bruins transformation will began after the quiet airplane ride back home.

UCLA will open up next year with at home September 1 with Cincinnati and then next week travel to Norman to face Oklahoma on September 8, 2017.

UCLA Bruins Cactus Bowl Tidbits

By

Jevone Moore

-

December 25, 2017

Josh Rosen at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly fi360 News)

Phoenix, AZ – The Cactus Bowl will be this UCLA Bruins team last home game of 2017 season against the Kansas State on December 26 at 6pm. The Bruins are undefeated at home this year 6-0 and they come out onto Chase Field in their home baby blues.

UCLA interim head coach Jedd Fisch will be ready to coach his second and last game as top dog. New head coach Chip Kelly will take over all duties after the bowl game.

“I looked it up last night and he has been a head coach for 320 games, and this is my second. But I have a better win percentage,” said coach Fisch.

UCLA Bruins head coach Jedd Fisch smiling at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Ca. on November 24, 2017 (Photo by Jevone Moore)

This year team has underachieved on the road which eventually led to the release of former coach Jim Mora.

These two teams are familiar with each other meeting up in 2015 in the Alamo Bowl when UCLA was victories 40-35.

Kansas State is one of the hottest teams in the Big 12 conference finishing in 4th place, with big wins over rival Kansas and Oklahoma State.

Less than 48 hours from game time and UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen has not been medically cleared to play so most are expecting freshman Devon Modster to get the nod.

UCLA Bruins quarterback Devon Modster (18) at Huskies Stadium on October 28, 2017. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Rosen still has not said if he will forgo his senior year for the NFL draft but he’s been able to get great advice from former Bruins.

“I’ve talked to Troy Aikman and Brett Huntley and Pat Cowen, a lot of guys,” said Rosen “I love the guys I’ve met and I loved my experience here.”

I know UCLA offensive MVP Jordan Lasley is one play who wish he was going to battle with Rosen at the helm on last time. Lasley will have opportunity to get his third 200 yard receiving game in a row Tuesday night.

Lasley has had a wild ride this season that mirrors the Bruins ups and downs. But there is no denying when Lasley is on the field he will show up and show out.