UCLA football heads to Husky Stadium for a matchup against Washington on Friday night, both teams looking to secure bowl eligibility in their first year in the Big Ten. With identical records of 4-5 overall and 3-4 in conference play, both squads have faced challenges and changes, including the arrival of new head coaches.
Sports editor Ira Gorawara predicts a narrow victory for Washington with a score of 23-20. He highlights the fascinating similarities in the teams’ journeys this season, noting their rookie head coaches and struggles with roster adjustments. Both teams are striving to earn respect in the Big Ten while dealing with outcomes that have been less than stellar compared to their prior seasons.
Assistant Sports editor Una O’Farrell predicts a close win for UCLA, 23-22, arguing that the Bruins have shown resilience on the road and have a solid ground game that may give them an advantage.
Digital managing editor Mia Tavares sees UCLA emerging victorious with a score of 32-24, citing their recent success away from home and the challenges faced by Washington’s new quarterback and coaching staff. She sees a bright side, suggesting that the Bruins have found their groove despite the adverse weather conditions that may come into play during the game.
Editor-in-chief Lex Wang offers a tongue-in-cheek prediction of a dramatic 98-7 victory for UCLA, jokingly saying he doesn’t root for losing teams and hopes that this game will mark a turnaround for the Bruins. His light-hearted take emphasizes the importance of fan support and the desire for a strong performance from the team.
As both teams continue to adapt in their new conference, this matchup presents an opportunity for growth and highlights the potential for exciting football. The game carries implications not just for immediate standings but also for building a foundation for the future in the Big Ten.
Overall, it’s a moment filled with hope for fans on both sides as they look for their teams to rise to the occasion and potentially secure a spot in the postseason.