UCLA football: 3 takeaways from huge win over No. 13 Washington State

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Oct 7, 2023; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Gabriel Murphy (11) celebrates after sacking Washington State Cougars quarterback Cameron Ward (1) during the second half at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. The UCLA football defense was the difference

When was the last time you heard praise about a Chip Kelly-coached defense? It’s usually his offense that draws the praise because, well, he’s been widely known as an offensive genius throughout the years dating back to his days at Oregon.

On Saturday, his defense stepped up and stole the show.

No one really expected UCLA vs. Washington State to be a defensive battle, but that’s what it turned into, especially with a pick-six accounting for the Cougars’ only touchdown in the first half. Holding a Cam Ward-led offense to zero first-half touchdowns was a huge win for this defense, so was turning the Heisman-caliber quarterback over two times — UCLA forced four total turnovers.

Washington State couldn’t get anything going on the ground, finishing with 12 total rushing yards on 19 carries — yes, you read that right. Of course, sacks accounted for some negative rushing yards, but the Bruins didn’t give up anything on the ground. Plus, Ward only had just over 200 passing yards and under a 50 percent completion rate.

This defense has come a really long way.

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