UCLA Football: Game-by-Game Predictions for Month of November
With four games remaining in the regular season, the No. 25 UCLA Bruins still have a shot at winning the Pac-12 South Division.
The upcoming slate is not an easy one by any stretch. All four opponents have been or are currently ranked. Fortunately for Jim Mora's team, three of the four games are being played in the Rose Bowl.
This piece will take a stab at predictions for the quartet of games in November. Not only will UCLA look to make it into the conference championship game, but it will also try and win 10 games in back-to-back seasons.
11/1: Arizona
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The last time UCLA rolled out an alternate uniform at home (the "LA Nights" jersey in 2012, to be exact), it beat Arizona by a score of 66-10.
The Bruins hope this trend can continue on Saturday, as the surging Arizona Wildcats pay a visit to the Rose Bowl.
This will be a fascinating game on a lot of levels. Rich Rodriguez brings an explosive offense, and an active—albeit small—defense.
Surely, Arizona will want to atone for the two straight losses versus UCLA. With both teams in the hunt to win the division, this game has massive implications.
UCLA should have one big advantage, and that's up front with its offensive line. Arizona is considerably undersized in regards to its defensive front. The Bruins should be able to pick up huge chunks of yards on the ground with Paul Perkins and Brett Hundley.
If they are able to do so, it'll chew up clock and keep Arizona's offense off the field. UCLA's ability (or inability) to pressure quarterback Anu Solomon will also be something to watch.
I expect a somewhat high scoring game, with UCLA coming out on top.
Verdict: Win
11/8: At Washington
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This contest figures to be relatively close.
In terms of pure talent, both teams are somewhat equal. The Huskies possess a stronger defense across the board, while UCLA's offense has the upper hand.
Expect the weather to be poor. Although one would think Washington has an edge playing in wet, windy weather, UCLA's offense is better equipped to deal with the potential adverse conditions. The Bruins possess a strong running game and easily have an advantage in regards to their signal-caller.
In Jim Mora's first trip back to Seattle since taking over as UCLA's head coach, the Bruins will pull out a close victory.
Verdict: Win
11/22: Southern Cal
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Welcome of the first installment between Mora and Steve Sarkisian.
In terms of momentum in Los Angeles between the programs, UCLA currently has it. Not only are the Bruins currently ranked, but they've upended Southern Cal in two straight contest by double-digit point totals.
Depending on what happens in the upcoming few weeks, this game could have potential South Division implications.
The Trojans have very little depth—and they're getting thinner by the week. Starting left tackle Chad Wheeler is out for the season, and stud defender J.R. Tavai is out for the foreseeable future.
With injuries mounting, this might not be a great matchup for Southern Cal. The Bruins have a deeper football team and will be playing at home.
Verdict: Win
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11/28: Stanford
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Six days later, UCLA hosts perhaps Mora's biggest nemesis in Stanford.
In his tenure, the Bruins have yet to defeat the Cardinal. Traditionally speaking, a power run game and a staunch defense has made life difficult for UCLA.
This contest should be no different. Utah is perhaps the most similar team to Stanford. Versus the Utes, UCLA failed to match the physicality. The Utah defensive line had its way with the young and inconsistent Bruins' offensive line. Devontae Booker also ran for considerable success behind a big, veteran front.
Stanford currently has the No. 2 ranked defense in the country. I expect the Cardinal to get after Hundley with pressure, and he will unfortunately struggle in a low-scoring defeat.
Verdict: Loss
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