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There was in all probability a joke to be made about UCLA shifting follow this week to its intramural fields after being so totally outclassed in its season opener.
The intent was to arrange for the substitute turf the Bruins will play Saturday inside Allegiant Stadium, however they will even must considerably stage as much as beat Nevada Las Vegas.
Whereas coach DeShaun Foster’s “We were close” declaration didn’t go over effectively with followers within the wake of a 33-point loss to Utah, defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe and inside linebackers coach Scott White indicated by way of their physique language and phrases that there was important work to be accomplished on a protection that missed so many tackles.
“Trying to get it fixed, man,” White informed reporters throughout an opportunity encounter exterior the Wasserman Soccer Heart.
Two days later, Malloe stated basically the identical factor whereas strolling previous reporters, including an expletive for emphasis.
Sadly, the problems dealing with this crew transcend protection. UCLA should get its run sport going. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava must cease overthrowing receivers. The Bruins even have to start out changing third downs extra usually after discovering success on simply two of 11 alternatives per week in the past.
Can all of it occur Saturday night? Listed here are 5 issues to look at when UCLA (0-1) faces UNLV (2-0) in what quantities to a must-win state of affairs in solely the season’s second sport: