UCLA football experienced a significant setback on Saturday, falling to the No. 2 Indiana Hoosiers with a staggering score of 56-6. This defeat marked the Bruins’ first loss since Tim Skipper took over as interim coach, following a previous bye week. Now, the team has a crucial week to reflect and prepare as they get ready to host Nebraska at the Rose Bowl next weekend.
Assessing the Bruins’ Performance
In Bloomington, the Bruins struggled at the line of scrimmage and were unable to score a touchdown for the first time this season. Skipper, reflecting on the game, noted the stark difference in performance between top teams and his own. “The thing you take from it is, you know how the top teams in this country and in this conference play and you know how you need to play,” Skipper explained. He emphasized the need for the team to practice and play hard consistently.
With a record of 3-5 overall and 3-2 in the Big Ten, the Bruins must regroup. Skipper acknowledged that his team did not exhibit the necessary “strain” during the game, a term he has used to describe the effort needed to push beyond expectations. The Bruins conceded 475 yards of total offense, averaging 6.3 yards per play against a formidable Indiana team.
Linebacker Isaiah Chisom also shared his insights, noting, “I really just say like we had a lot of missed tackles. And tackling is definitely, like an intent type of thing.” He maintained that the team did not give up, stating, “We kept on fighting.”
Injury Updates and Upcoming Challenges
As the Bruins prepare for their next game, they face challenges on the injury front. Running back Anthony Woods, who missed the Indiana game, was absent from Wednesday’s practice. Offensive lineman Eugene Brooks, who was questionable against the Hoosiers, was dressed for practice but did not participate in agility drills. Skipper confirmed that Brooks sustained an injury prior to traveling to Bloomington.
“A big week for those guys, just getting healthy, getting back right and doing all the rehab and everything they need to do to be able to help us once we get ready for game week next week,” Skipper stated. The upcoming match against Nebraska (6-2, 3-2 Big Ten) could serve as a pivotal moment for the Bruins as they aim to bounce back from this disappointing defeat and regain their momentum.