UCLA’s perfect start has one glaring flaw it must fix soon

Key Points:

• UCLA improved to 7-0 for the first time since 2005 with a 28-10 win over a depleted Michigan State team, maintaining their status as the only undefeated team in the Big Ten and SEC.
• Despite the victory, UCLA struggled in the first half with two fumbles, two drops, two holding penalties, and only 84 passing yards, leading to a modest 14-7 halftime lead against a weakened Spartan squad.
• The Bruins showcased their strength in the second half, outscoring Michigan State 14-0 in the third quarter, a hallmark of coach Bob Chesney’s teams known for strong second-half performances.
• Chesney emphasized the need to eliminate early mistakes like turnovers and penalties, acknowledging that such errors could cost close games, especially given UCLA’s challenging path to a College Football Playoff berth.
• While UCLA’s schedule is considered relatively soft and they are playing behind a backup quarterback, their ability to dominate in the second half positions them as a legitimate contender, though slow starts remain a concern for future high-stakes games.