UCLA Football: Report card for disappointing Week 1 loss at Cincinnati

Defense

Defensive Line: B+

The defensive line probably was the best unit overall for the Bruins against the Bearcats. They did a good job creating havoc in the back field and chasing quarterback Desmond Ridder out of the pocket. The defensive line started out the game strong as they were causing a pile at the line of scrimmage and forcing Ridder to make some tough throws.

However, as the game went on and the defense was on the field longer than they would like, due to their offense not sustaining drives, they started to lose some steam. When Cincinnati scored on a screen in the fourth quarter, Ridder did a good job baiting defensive line which left open space for the Bearcats to score.

Linebackers: B

Similar to the defensive line unit, the linebackers did a good job most of the game. There were a few good runs from the Bearcats running backs, but they kept them in front for the most part and did a good job plugging the holes. They had a spy on Ridder most of the game, which was pretty effective till the end of the game. Like the defensive line, the linebackers started fatiguing a bit due to the fact they were on the field for so long.

Secondary: C

The defensive backs struggled through out the game. There were receivers open on most every play and Ridder was able to put the ball where he wanted it. I will give them some credit as they kept fighting and had a “bend but don’t break” mindset. They did create a huge interception that kept the Bearcats out of the end-zone at the end of the first half.

Besides that big interception, the defensive backs did not have their best game, but did do enough to help the Bruins stay in the game.