UCLA Football: 5 bold predictions for Cactus Bowl vs. Kansas State

4. Josh Rosen’s absence won’t matter for UCLA

When Rosen was forced to leave the game against Cal, the Bruins were holding on to a 17-6 lead in the second quarter. The coaching staff was forced to turn to freshman backup Devon Modster, who had played sparingly in three previous games over the course of the 2017 campaign. It could have been a recipe for disaster.

Instead, Modster ably kept the Bruins in the lead for the rest of the night. Modster went 14-of-18 for 191 yards passing, added five rushing yards, and did a great job guiding the UCLA offense. He did not generate a scoring play on the night, but Modster also avoided creating any turnovers that could have allowed the Golden Bears to pull out the comeback.

Modster is a four-star recruit that is also renowned for his deep-ball accuracy. He showcased that arm several times during the regular season, and he will have a breakout performance against Kansas State’s abysmal passing defense.

Look for the freshman to gash the Wildcats for at least 300 passing yards and four touchdowns in the Cactus Bowl. Modster will set himself up as the heir apparent to guide Chip Kelly’s offense in 2018 and beyond. Even if Rosen does elect to return to school for another year, Modster’s play in the Cactus Bowl will open the discussion about which player should get the nod for Kelly.