In a recent game against Arizona, UCLA faced a disheartening loss that had them yearning for a different sport, namely basketball.
This frustrating defeat saw the Bruins lose two of their quarterbacks to injuries and struggle with missed field goals and failed opportunities in the red zone.
To add to their woes, their final drive ended with a third-string quarterback’s incomplete pass on fourth down, allowing the Wildcats to take possession.
UCLA was left with Collin Schlee as their quarterback after starter Ethan Garbers suffered a right leg injury early in the fourth quarter, and backup Dante Moore hit his head on the turf a couple of series later. Their offense couldn’t find a rhythm, except for one hurry-up drive at the end of the first half.
Despite the challenges, UCLA (with a 6-3 overall record and 3-3 in the Pac-12) held onto faint hopes of a comeback after Kain Medrano blocked a punt, giving them the ball in Arizona territory. However, Moore faced a difficult fourth-and-19 situation and couldn’t convert, sustaining an injury in the process.
On the other side, Arizona (with a 6-3 overall record and 4-2 in the Pac-12) secured a field goal, becoming bowl-eligible for the first time since 2017. They celebrated a third consecutive victory over a nationally ranked team.
Arizona’s quarterback, Noah Fifita, executed a quick-passing strategy, completing 25 of 32 passes for 300 yards and three touchdowns with one interception. He received support from wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who made an impressive touchdown catch. Arizona outperformed UCLA in total yardage and converted a high percentage of third downs, while Fifita managed to escape pressure during crucial plays.
In contrast, UCLA’s quarterbacks had a tough time. Garbers threw for 143 yards and a touchdown before his injury. Moore came off the bench but struggled, completing only four of seven passes for 14 yards during his two drives.
UCLA faced a 14-7 halftime deficit, which they managed to narrow with a quick touchdown drive. However, they had their fair share of problems, including fumbles, missed field goals, and penalties.
In the end, it was a frustrating game for UCLA, leaving them with little else to say except that they were eagerly awaiting the start of the basketball season.
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