Pasadena, CA – The UCLA Bruins get into a rhythm in the second half to defeat the Arizona Wildcats 45-24 for the fifth time in a row.
The big “IF’ was answered can the Bruins put points on the scoreboard. Head coach Jim Mora used the word if as a key takeaway from from tonight. Mora was very positive about the blowout victory but realized that the team still needs work.
The Bruins scored 31 points in second half, behind the strong arm of Josh Rosen. He throw for four touchdown that half, starting off with quick strike to freshman Theo Howard on 19 yard catch and run. Rosen threw for 350 yards 20-37 completions and no interceptions.
Wide receiver Darren Andrews jumped in the rotation and led the eight receivers who caught passes during the game. Andrews caught nine balls for 108 yards receiving.
Bruins still had some key drops passes that need to be caught, IF the want to stay on the field. Tonight was a breakout game for true freshman Howard Mora said, “You’re going to see a lot more of Theo Howard, I promise you that,”
Arizona came into the game starting their second string quarterback Brandon Dawkins who threw for only 73 yards and a touchdown before being knocked out the game by the aggressive Bruins defense.
Late in the game another Wildcat quarterback went down and in came local prep star Khalil Tate from Serra High who added a spark for his team. Tate finished throwing two touchdowns 73 yards passing, he rushed for 83 yards on the ground.
This type performance tells Arizona head coach Rich Rodriguez that he has a real deal player for the future.
UCLA linebacker Kenny Young lead this aggressive defense with 12 tackles for the game. The other active back was Jayon Brown who was one tackle behind with 11.
Now the Bruins will have to bring all three phase of the game with them to Tempe next Saturday when they travel to play Arizona State.
