Professor Pigskin: UCLA edition

The professor returns to talk about a game that is much more interesting now that both teams come in with a good win under their belts. As always these are (mostly) real questions from e-mails, texts, social media and Brad's Dad.

Was the second half against Washington State a turning point for the Bruins?

I doubt it. UCLA was amazing in the second half scoring 50 points in two quarters. The previous 14 quarters saw them score just 59 points. While the Arizona defense is probably closer to Washington State’s than Oklahoma’s, it is hard to think that UCLA suddenly gets it. UCLA took advantage of some big special teams plays and six Washington State turnovers. UCLA will probably score more than the 14 they were averaging heading into the WSU game, but assuming Arizona takes care of the ball and does not melt down on special teams, I have a hard time thinking UCLA will score anywhere near the 67 they scored against the Cougs.

What’s the most surprising thing about UCLA’s struggles?

The fact that they lack a top tier quarterback. There is no reason the school should not have an elite passer. First and foremost quarterbacks grow on trees in Los Angeles and then you factor in the school’s history with passers and it should be a no-brainer. When you factor in the Chip Kelly factor, his track record with passers was pretty stellar at Oregon, and it is baffling that they don’t have better play from the quarterback position.

What did you think of the “Swag Copter” that Sumlin used to recruit last week?

I think it was over the top and excessive but I am not the intended audience. I am the guy who wants to return to the classic Dick Tomey-era uniforms and wants the band to play more between plays. I am not an 18-year old kid looking for a college. As long as it is booster supported and not coming out of the general budget I guess it is fine. If it helps land one or two of the kids, then it was worth it.

How important is this game?

I think the season hinges on this game for both teams. If Arizona wins then they get to 3-1 and need just three wins the rest of the way to get bowl eligible. You have to think they have a chance to carve out three more wins against Colorado, Stanford, Oregon State and ASU, though they may only be favored in one of those games since three are on the road. The Wildcats are also usually due for an upset, and it would be a major upset if they could beat Washington, USC, Oregon or Utah. Lost tonight, and a bowl bid looks really tough.

As for UCLA, there is a huge difference between 2-3 and 1-4. The Bruins have a stretch where they can make up for their 0-3 start. Beating Arizona would put them at 2-0 and their next four are against Oregon State, Stanford, ASU and Colorado. They miss UW and Oregon, and finish with Cal who could be in a freefall if their QB is our for the year. UCLA was dead in the water a week ago and now have a glimmer of hope. Beat Arizona and things could be looking up for the Bruins and their embattled coach Chip Kelly.

So who wins?

I think UCLA is making strides, but Arizona is better. As long as the Wildcats take care of the football, I think they are better.

Arizona 35, UCLA 27