Last season, UCLA played against a nationally ranked Arizona State team that led the Pac-12 with a 4-1 conference record while UCLA sat at 3-2.
UCLA pulled off a 29-28 upset win thanks to a missed Arizona State field goal as time expired, pushing the Bruins into a tie atop the conference.
Arizona State went on to lose their next four games while UCLA ended up representing the Pac-12 South in the inaugural Pac-12 championship.
This season’s matchup has an eerily similar feel along with major ramifications.
“They are 3-1 in the Pac-12 and we’re 2-2,” said coach Jim Mora. “This is a big game, no doubt.”
The Bruins (5-2, 2-2 Pac-12) will face the Sun Devils (5-2, 3-1) this weekend in Tempe.
While their record might be strong, Arizona State is coming off of its worst loss of the season against No. 2 Oregon, who jumped out to a 43-7 lead at halftime en route to their seventh victory of the season.
The Sun Devils’ starting quarterback, sophomore Taylor Kelly, threw for only 93 yards in the loss along with two interceptions.
So far this season, however, Kelly has been stellar for Arizona State, leading the Pac-12 in passer rating despite his poor performance against Oregon.
Fortunately for UCLA, the Bruins have an offense comparable to the Sun Devils’, which means they should be more prepared on defense. They face something similar in practice.
“It helps seeing that fast-paced, running tempo with speedy guys on a daily basis,” said redshirt sophomore safety Tevin McDonald. “Running around, chasing them all day at practice has definitely helped us prepare.”
On the offensive side of the ball, the team will have to account for a strong Arizona State pass defense, which currently leads the Pac-12.
A big part of the Sun Devils’ success in pass defense this season has come from junior defensive tackle Will Sutton, who is currently tied for third in the nation in sacks and tackles for loss.
Sutton, though, sustained a bone bruise in last week’s loss to the Ducks. His status is unclear for tomorrow’s game, but the Bruins are preparing to face the disruptive tackle regardless.
“That’s a really good defensive front we’re going to face,” said redshirt senior offensive guard Jeff Baca. “Sutton is having a great season, but even if he doesn’t play, they have guys out there who are going to step up. We’re looking forward to the challenge.”
The game is a big one for UCLA ““ it’s time to start thinking about the playoffs, and this weekend brings a chance to get an edge up on ASU.
“Every game from here on out is a must-win,” Baca said. “That’s just how it is. These are the big games, this is playoff time, and we’re looking forward to getting it started against ASU this weekend.”