UCLA is one of only two teams in the Pac-12 squads without a single foe from a power conference foe on its nonconference schedule in 2023, but the Bruins should get a tough test with their Week 2 trip to San Diego State. After derailing a strong Coastal Carolina squad known for its offense in last week’s 27-13 win, UCLA will see an Aztec team with a strong defensive reputation.
The Aztecs are off to a 2-0 start with victories over Ohio and Idaho State and have forced six turnovers already during the young season. San Diego State has finished .500 or better in 13 straight seasons and taken down its share of Pac-12 foes, including UCLA in 2019. SDSU is again expected to be in the Mountain West title hunt and figures to stand tall on its home field against the visiting Bruins.
For UCLA, the game marks another opportunity for the Bruins to show they belong in the conversation with presumed Pac-12 title contenders. They finished last season ranked No. 18 in the College Football Playoff Rankings but were voted sixth in this year’s preseason Pac-12 media poll after the departure of several key offensive playmakers.
UCLA vs. San Diego State: Need to know
Quarterback question: After five seasons with Dorian Thompson-Robinson at quarterback, UCLA is finally on to a new chapter at the position. Ethan Garbers started at QB for the Bruins in Week 1 and led a touchdown drive to start the game that he capped with a 21-yard strike to tight end Carsen Ryan. By the time the Bruins’ win over Coastal Carolina was complete, however, Dante Moore had stolen the show. The freshman was the program’s second-highest rated commitment of all time, according to 247Sports, and he flashed his potential with two touchdown passes against the Chanticleers. How Chip Kelly divides…
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