(first published on KLAC's Bruins Board website --- 9/17/09)
Contain speedster Daniel Thomas and everything else should fall into place for UCLA’s defense against Kansas State on Saturday. The junior tailback rushed for over 100 yards in each of the Wildcats’ first two games. Of course, Massachusetts and Lousiana-Lafayette aren’t exactly college football powerhouses.
New old head coach Bill Snyder (70 in October) needs to get more out of junior quarterback Carson Coffman if he wants to avoid a long season. Coffman was mediocre at best in last week’s 17-15 loss to the Ragin’ Cajuns. So far, the Wildcat offense has greatly missed the play of QB Josh Freeman, chosen by Tampa Bay with the 17th pick in April’s NFL Draft. But Coffman has the mobility to add dimension to a rather bland Kansas State attack---Thomas notwithstanding.
For UCLA, the challenge goes beyond defensive containment. Freshman quarterback Kevin Prince fractured his jaw late in last week’s 19-15 win over Tennessee; he’s expected to miss at least two games. In his place will be either freshman Richard Brehaut or senior Kevin Craft. Head coach Rick Neuheisel hasn’t revealed his starting choice yet but did say he may play both in the game.
Whoever gets the call will be reliant on further strong play by a rejuvenated UCLA offensive line. Last year the Bruins averaged under three yards per carry. Through two games, that number is up to more than four, and the pass protection has been reliable as well.
Non-conference games in September do not a Pac-10 championship team make, but they sure do build confidence. Saturday’s home game against Kansas State should be no different. Look for the Bruins to head into their bye week full of momentum.
Prediction: UCLA over Kansas State, 27-10
-JAB
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