KEY GAMES
Sept. 25 at Texas
Facing last season’s national runner up at home in Austin, Texas will be no small task for the Bruins. If they can somehow pull off a victory, however, that would set the tone for a successful season.
Oct. 21 at Oregon
Although the Ducks have had some off the field issues with the loss of their starting quarterback, Jeremiah Masoli, getting a win in Eugene’s Autzen Stadium is always difficult. The Ducks edged the Bruins by a touchdown last time they were there.
Dec. 4 v. USC
This game needs no introduction. After last year’s fiasco in which Pete Carroll was seen as running up the score, the Bruins should be hungry for revenge in the Rose Bowl against the Trojans, now under the direction of Lane Kiffin.
Compiled by Bruin Sports senior staff.
2009 RECAP
The Bruins finished at 7-6 in coach Rick Neuheisel’s second year at the helm and capped off the season with a win over Temple in the EagleBank Bowl. After opening the year with a three-game winning streak, UCLA would go on to drop five in a row only to go on another three-game winning streak before losing to the Trojans in the regular season finale. The defense was strong throughout the season, but the offense never found the consistency that it was looking for.
SEASON OUTLOOK
If redshirt sophomore quarterback Kevin Prince can remain healthy, the Bruins’ offense should thrive under some much needed leadership. The defense lost key players in defensive tackle Brian Price and cornerback Alterraun Verner, but veterans such as safety Rahim Moore and linebacker Akeem Ayers return as the anchors of the defense. Coach Rick Neuheisel, now in his third year, continually promises fans that they’re rebuilding the program ““ which can take time. The clock is ticking on Neuheisel and his team.
SOURCE: uclabruins.com
Compiled by Bruin Sports senior staff.