UCLA Football Team Plays Better After Changes

The UCLA football team is playing much better lately. They have won their last few games, including a big win against Michigan State. Interim coach Tim Skipper has helped the team improve its game by focusing on running the ball.
By Newsroom | Sports, College Football |

Recent weeks have seen a notable change in the fortunes of the UCLA football program. After a period of what some describe as disorganized play, the Bruins have achieved a series of victories, culminating in a decisive win over Michigan State. This shift has drawn attention from analysts and opposing coaches, prompting a reevaluation of the team's current trajectory and past struggles. The team's performance under interim head coach Tim Skipper has been particularly scrutinized, with the team demonstrating an improved offensive approach, notably a strong reliance on the run game.

Where No. 2 UCLA still needs to improve after blowing out No. 13 Michigan State - 1

The Turning Tide: From Disarray to Dominance

UCLA's recent success, particularly their 38-13 trouncing of Michigan State, marks a significant departure from earlier perceptions. Interim head coach Tim Skipper has guided the team to a 2-0 record during his tenure. This turnaround appears to have been fueled by a deliberate change in strategy, moving away from what was described as a "bland, disorganized style." Skipper reportedly used printouts of this criticism to motivate his team prior to their game against Michigan State.

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Where No. 2 UCLA still needs to improve after blowing out No. 13 Michigan State - 2

  • Key Victory: The win against Michigan State is highlighted as a significant performance, with UCLA amassing 238 rushing yards.

  • Motivations: The team appears to have maintained a competitive edge following a previous "shocking upset win over Penn State."

Addressing Past Challenges: The "One-Hit Wonder" Narrative and Deeper Issues

Despite the recent wins, the question of whether UCLA is merely experiencing a brief period of success – a "one-hit wonder" – has been raised. This narrative is compounded by reports suggesting that the program's issues may extend beyond recent coaching changes.

Where No. 2 UCLA still needs to improve after blowing out No. 13 Michigan State - 3

  • Interim Coach's Perspective: Tim Skipper has directly addressed the "one-hit wonder" label, implying a belief in the team's sustained capability.

  • Long-Term Concerns: Some former staffers and observers suggest that UCLA's problems are "far beyond" recent leadership, hinting at systemic issues that predate the current coaching staff. The criticism of athletic director Martin Jarmond regarding his handling of the football program is noted.

  • Alumni Discontent: It is suggested that alumni are more bothered by the program's perceived struggles than the current players.

Coaching Transitions and Player Retention

The recent coaching changes at UCLA, including the hiring of Deshaun Foster as head coach and the subsequent leadership under Tim Skipper as interim, have occurred within a context of broader institutional shifts. The university's chancellor, Julio Frenk, took office in January, aligning with a period of significant flux for the football program.

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Where No. 2 UCLA still needs to improve after blowing out No. 13 Michigan State - 4

  • Foster's Tenure: Deshaun Foster's appointment comes after a period where he was seen as a potential candidate to improve the program.

  • Skipper's Interim Role: Tim Skipper, as interim head coach, has a 2-0 record. His coaching style, exemplified by his approach at Fresno State, emphasizes the ground attack.

  • Neuheisel's Influence: Offensive playcalling under Jerry Neuheisel is also credited with contributing to the team's recent success, with UCLA holding a 3-0 record when he is directing the offense.

Strategic Shifts and Opponent Perceptions

The improved performance of UCLA has led to a recalibration of how opponents view the team. Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti, despite UCLA's 3-4 overall record, expressed a high regard for the "new-look UCLA" prior to their matchup.

  • Perceived Strength: Cignetti views UCLA as effectively being 3-0 under Tim Skipper and Jerry Neuheisel, suggesting their record does not reflect their current capability.

  • Offensive Identity: The Bruins' current offensive strategy, particularly their effective running game, has been noted by opposing coaches.

  • Program Reevaluation: The team's recent victories have also impacted national rankings, with some publications re-evaluating UCLA's standing.

Michigan State's Post-Loss Analysis

Following their significant loss to UCLA, the Michigan State football program is reportedly facing internal discussions about its future direction. Reports suggest a critical assessment of the coaching staff and potential player retention strategies.

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  • Coaching Recommendations: Suggestions have been made for promoting Courtney Hawkins to interim coach and for the potential dismissal of Jonathan Smith.

  • Player Management: The risk of player departures via the transfer portal following a coaching change is a significant concern for Michigan State.

  • Recruit Retention: Efforts to retain existing recruits are also cited as a priority for the Michigan State program.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is the UCLA football team playing better?
The team has made some changes and is now focusing more on running the ball. Interim coach Tim Skipper has led them to recent wins.
Q: Who is the interim head coach?
Tim Skipper is the interim head coach. He has led the team to a 2-0 record since taking over.
Q: Did UCLA beat Michigan State?
Yes, UCLA had a big win against Michigan State, scoring 38 points to Michigan State's 13.
Q: Are there problems with the UCLA football program?
Some people say the problems are older than the current coaches. They think issues go deeper in the program.