Will This Key Matchup Spark The UCLA Bruins Against Minnesota Gophers?

The UCLA Bruins (1-4) return home to face the Minnesota Gophers (3-3) at the Rose Bowl in a crucial matchup for both teams as they navigate Big Ten play.

The Bruins, who have struggled offensively all season, are hoping to show signs of life yet again after a string of tough losses. With the line set at +5.5 in favor of Minnesota, UCLA will be looking to put together a more consistent performance after showing a bit of a spark at Penn State.

Minnesota Gophers Recent Form

NCAA Football: Southern California at Minnesota | Next UCLA Bruins Opponent
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The Golden Gophers are coming off a dramatic 24-17 win over the USC Trojans, where they posted 14 unanswered points in the fourth quarter.

The game should be interesting as they went toe-to-toe with Michigan as well and lost by a field goal.

Minnesota’s ground game was led by Darius Taylor, who racked up 144 yards on 25 carries. UCLA’s run defense has improved with them giving up 103 and 78 yards the past 2 weeks.

Though Minnesota has been inconsistent this season, their strong defensive performance and recent win over a ranked opponent make them a formidable challenge.

UCLA Bruins Offensive Struggles

NCAA Football: UCLA Bruins at Penn State
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The Bruins have failed to score more than 17 points in any game since their trip to LSU. Justyn Martin made his first start against Penn State last week, throwing for 167 yards and a touchdown, but UCLA’s offensive line continues to struggle, contributing to a dismal 260 total yards and 11 points in the loss.

UCLA’s offense has managed just five offensive touchdowns this season, with TJ Harden accounting for the only rushing score.

Mateen Bhaghani, UCLA’s reliable kicker, has been a major contributor, scoring a majority of the Bruins’ points this season, further underscoring the offense’s difficulties.

Key Matchup: UCLA’s Defense vs. Minnesota’s Ground Game

NCAA Football: UCLA Bruins at Penn State
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For UCLA to stay competitive, its defense led by Carson Schwesinger—will need to continue its strong play. Schwesinger has recorded double-digit tackles in each of the last three games.

Minnesota’s Darius Taylor will provide a tough test, as the Golden Gophers rely heavily on their rushing attack.

Prediction

Minnesota enters the game as the slight favorite, but UCLA will be looking for any signs of improvement on offense.

If the Bruins can protect their quarterback and get contributions from Harden and the defense, they may be able to keep it close.

However, Minnesota’s balanced attack and recent form make them a tough challenge.

Expect a high-scoring affair with UCLA hoping to finally break through offensively.

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