Hoosiers Aim to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive Against Red-Hot Bruins
This Saturday in Bloomington, Indiana, the second-ranked Hoosiers will host the resurgent UCLA Bruins, in what will be one of the few matchups to watch during this weekend's slate. Starting with Indiana, it is no secret that they have proven their legitimacy in the college football world this year with wins over ninth-ranked Illinois and third-ranked Oregon. Led by second-year head coach Curt Cignetti, this team shows off their hunger, grit, and dominance no matter who the opponent is. Behind center for the Hoosiers is quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who has thrown 21 touchdowns and just two interceptions, serving as the backbone of the offense. However, Mendoza wouldn't be able to have such insane stats if it weren't for this team's armored offensive line. Led by Carter Smith, this vaulted front has allowed just six sacks, along with giving Mendoza ample time to scramble around the pocket, making defenses have to keep up with him.
Looking at the other side of the field, UCLA has had a wild season to say the least. After a 0-4 start with losses against teams such as UNLV and New Mexico, UCLA fired Head Coach Deshaun Foster. This led to UCLA promoting Tim Skipper to interim head coach, and Offensive Coordinator Jerry Neuheisel to calling plays. Since this "new regime" took over, the Bruins are 3-0, putting up 42 points against Penn State and 38 against Michigan State. It's clear the offense has improved, as QB Nico Iamaleava is playing with much more confidence, and the defense has looked solid. After a hard-fought victory last week against Maryland, UCLA is looking to shock the world this Saturday and show it can compete with anybody.
Curt Cignetti is the kind of guy who would do everything it takes to prevent his squad from even thinking about complacency. It will be shown on the field as the Hoosiers continue their unbeaten streak and their quest for a spot in the College Football Playoffs. I can see it being close in the first half, similar to last week’s Michigan State game. Still, IU will pull away with a giant lead in the second half. My final prediction for this game is Indiana 45, UCLA 20.
