UCLA Football: 3 takeaways from bounce-back win over Cal

Nov 15, 2020; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Caleb Johnson (40) celebrates with defensive back Grady Liddell (20) after making an interception against the California Golden Bears in the first half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dorian Thompson-Robinson, UCLA football Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Dorian Thompson-Robinson doesn’t get a fair shake

People love to blame the quarterback for a team’s shortcomings and that’s been the case with Dorian Thompson-Robinson for a couple of years now.

Even after he passed for 303 yards and four touchdowns while rushing for another 109 yards and a score in the season-opener, he was faulted for the loss at Colorado. Why? Because he completed just 50 percent of his passes and threw a pick. How is he only completing 50 percent of his throws against a mediocre defense as a third-year starter? That’s what happens when you take shots and try to do too much.

Sometimes Thompson-Robinson can get caught pressing and trying to play hero ball which isn’t necessary because he’s talented enough to just be calm and consistent.

We saw a good version of Thompson-Robinson on Sunday afternoon as he led the offense to a big game against the Golden Bears, posting 248 total yards and four touchdowns.

On the season, he now has nine total touchdowns and two interceptions, passing for 499 yards and rushing for another 161. Yet people will still find a way to criticize.

This kid just doesn’t receive a fair shake nor does he get enough respect.

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