Super interesting game. I was looking at some historical stats, and the Beavs are 17-43 lifetime vs UCLA but 8-14 at home. Still awful, but better. Only 17 wins ever vs UCLA. We also only have an average of 15 points scored. This of course is a different Beavs team with more talent than those, but to me it suggests the historical talent mismatch that’s likely still in place to some degree.

That said, I think the Beavs feed off the crowd and get it done. I want to see DJU running to get 1st downs and extend drives. That skill could be really useful in this game and a place for the Beavs to get some advantage.

My biggest concern is Smith, who’s game decisions are a full blown liability. Could cost us in this one if he continues to be reckless.

27-24 Beavs.

Gooo Beavs.

Note: Cal QB out. Changing the prediction to 34-17, Beavs.

This is a tricky game. Cal isn’t good, but they’re not bad, either. On the road, I think this one stays closer than it should be. I think DJU will be more efficient, Smith will blow an extra point, and it will lead to the Beavs winning but not covering.

27-21 Beavs.

Must win game?……….You Bet!
Go Beavs, need solid D and DJU to at least be a good game manager.

The bottom line is I don’t trust DJU vs good competition. I’m not saying he won’t perform well. He has the ability to do that, but he’s just really flawed mechanically. Throws off the back foot too much when there’s no pressure is the big one. Doesn’t roll out, doesn’t scramble, etc. I’m not convinced we’ll be able to run on Utah, and I’m not convinced DJU can win the game.

That said, I don’t want to get caught on up one game’s results. We know how that goes.

This is a prove me wrong game for the Beavs.

Utah 28, Beavs 17