UCLA Football: How the Bruins Can Upset Arizona

A massive Pac-12 South Division clash takes place Saturday night in the Rose Bowl, as the UCLA Bruins play host to the University of Arizona Wildcats. 

As is the case with virtually every contest in the division, this game has considerable implications for both teams in terms of becoming the South champion. 

Should UCLA lose this contest, it can virtually kiss its chances at winning the division goodbye. Rich Rodriguez brings a team that's looking to atone for two straight losses at the hands of the Bruins, including a 66-10 loss the last time Arizona played in Pasadena.

This piece will look at three aspects UCLA can utilize in order to upend the Wildcats. 

Control Line of Scrimmage

David Zalubowski/Associated Press

Running back Paul Perkins

Arizona is relatively stout up front, allowing less than 140 yards on the ground per game. Although the unit is small, elite linebacker Scooby Wright III leads a very active group. 

In order to control the ball and chew up clock, UCLA has to win the battle up front and run the ball effectively. Additionally, the offensive line has to protect Brett Hundley and allow him time to throw the ball down the field.

Arizona will blitz unconventionally with its 3-3-5 alignment. The Bruins will have to communicate well and diagnose the exotic looks of Arizona defensive coordinator Jeff Casteel. 

On the defensive side of the ball, Jeff Ulbrich has to bring pressure against Arizona signal-caller Anu Solomon. UCLA can't let him sit in the pocket comfortably and make throws to his supremely talented collection of skill players. 

Make Arizona One-Dimensional

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Signal-caller Anu Solomon will lead the Wildcats.

Arizona's offense is one of the better ones nationally. Perhaps more importantly, the Wildcats have wonderful balance in both throwing and running the football. 

Per ESPN, Arizona averages 348.4 yards per game through the air and 193.4 on the ground. UCLA has to try and make Arizona's offense one-dimensional.

In terms of defending against the run, UCLA is tasked with slowing down the two-headed monster of Terris Jones-Grigsby and Nick Wilson. 

Against the pass, the Wildcats possess perhaps the best set of receivers in the conference. The Bruins, in particular, will have to be cognizant of short throws and screens. 

Ultimately, making Solomon uncomfortable will be key. If he's in a rhythm, UCLA could be in for a long day. 

Control What You Can Control

David Zalubowski/Associated Press

Head coach Jim Mora

UCLA committed 14 penalties in the win last week versus the University of Colorado. With all due respect to the Buffaloes, the Bruins will lose to Arizona if they commit anywhere near the same amount of self-inflicted wounds. UCLA needs to improve immensely on its discipline and concentration. 

In regard to turnovers, the Bruins have committed six in the last three games. Being able to possess the football and not give the opposition easy chances is paramount. Arizona's offense is far too explosive and will make UCLA pay if the Bruins are careless with the ball. 

Lastly, effort will go a long way in determining the winner of this contest. Arizona has an undersized defense, but it's one that is scrappy and hard-nosed. UCLA needs play with the same sort of intensity.