UPDATE: UCLA football is on a mission for more victories following their stunning 42-37 upset against then-No. 7 Penn State at the Rose Bowl. Just moments after celebrating their first top-10 victory since 2007, interim coach Tim Skipper emphasized the team’s goal: “We don’t want to be one-hit wonders.”
This win, while exhilarating, is just the beginning. As the Bruins (1-4 overall, 1-1 Big Ten) prepare to face Michigan State (3-2, 0-2) on October 21, 2023, Skipper insists the focus must remain on building momentum. “Get back to work,” he urged his players, underscoring the need for consistency and determination.
The emotional impact of their recent victory has been palpable, with players and coaches reveling in the camaraderie and joy it brought back to the practice facility. “Smiling. Laughing. Talking,” Skipper described the atmosphere, a significant change from previous weeks. “When you’re sore after a game, it actually feels pretty good,” he added, reflecting on the team’s renewed spirit.
After the triumph, accolades poured in for the Bruins. Skipper was named the Dodd Trophy coach of the week, while quarterback Nico Iamaleava received recognition as the Associated Press national player of the week. Offensive coordinator Jerry Neuheisel was honored as CBS Sports coordinator of the week, highlighting the strategic adjustments that led to a season-high 435 yards of offense.
Skipper credits the team’s newfound success to a mentality he calls “strain,” which was emphasized throughout game week. “It’s just draining your tank and doing everything possible on every single play for us to achieve success,” he explained. This mindset was crucial as they executed plays with precision against Penn State.
The Bruins’ recent rise serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in college football. With Penn State now falling out of the national rankings, UCLA is looking to solidify their gains and establish stability as they head into Spartan Stadium. Skipper noted that Neuheisel’s play-calling adjustments were pivotal, allowing them to exploit defensive weaknesses effectively.
Looking ahead, Skipper reassured fans that the Bruins are committed to adapting their game plan for each opponent, especially given their unique circumstances without spring practice or fall training camps. “We’re just a work in progress, man,” he stated, emphasizing the continuous evolution of their strategy.
The upcoming match against Michigan State is not just another game; it’s a vital opportunity for UCLA to prove that their victory over Penn State was not a fluke. Fans are eager to see if the Bruins can replicate their success and build on this newfound confidence.
As the countdown to kickoff intensifies, UCLA’s players and coaches are ready to turn this moment into a series of victories. The momentum is palpable, and the stakes are higher than ever. Can the Bruins continue their surprising turnaround? Fans are anxiously watching as the next chapter unfolds.
