UCLA Coach Bob Chesney Told Team 8-0 Record Is Behind Them
The No. 2 ranked Bruins face Minnesota Saturday after Chesney emphasized that November performance matters more than previous wins.
By Rafael Collins ·
Bob Chesney told his UCLA players that their eight win, zero loss record no longer matters as he prepared the team for Saturday's trip to Minnesota. The coach used Tuesday morning practice to shift the focus toward the upcoming conference matchup. He wanted the squad to treat the winless portion of their season as a fresh start rather than a badge of honor. The message was delivered during the stretching period before the offense began its live reps.
Chesney stated that the score at halftime and the record entering November are the two most meaningless statistics in college football. He argued that only the performance in the current month determines a team's fate. The coach noted that his players were locked in during the session and played a physical brand of football. He said the team needs to maintain that intensity for the next two days before traveling by plane.
The Bruins enter the contest as the second ranked team in the nation for turnover margin. Minnesota is ranked 21st in that same category. The Gophers have forced eight interceptions and recovered six fumbles this season. UCLA leads the country with ten forced turnovers. Linebacker Sammy Omosigho is the primary driver of that statistic with five forced fumbles.
Omosigho also holds the lead in the nation with 62 tackles. He has recorded 10.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks in eight games. Minnesota counters with fifth year senior Maverick Baranowski at the linebacker position. Baranowski stands 6 feet 2 inches tall and has posted 62 tackles through the first eight games. He also has 3.5 tackles for loss, one interception, one sack, and two pass breakups.
Chesney praised Baranowski for his downhill style and understanding of defensive flows. He described the senior's post snap reaction as one of the best in the country. The coach said Baranowski tackles everyone he sees and serves as a warrior on the field. This physical presence poses a direct challenge for the UCLA offensive line and skill players.
The Gophers run game features junior TJ Thomas and senior Darius Taylor. Thomas averages six yards per carry this season. Taylor has rushed for five touchdowns. Senior offensive lineman Greg Johnson powers that attack and was placed on the Outland Trophy preseason watch list. Minnesota junior quarterback Drake Lindsey completed 20 of 37 passes for 120 yards and one touchdown in last week's overtime loss to Indiana.
Chesney called Lindsey a genuine threat who can throw the ball anywhere. He noted that the ball appears on the receiver's chest with surprising speed. The coach analyzed the offensive scheme designed by P.J. Fleck and Greg Harbaugh Jr. He pointed out that the team utilizes four by one sets, backside slants, and flood concepts. They also run inside zone and mid zone schemes from under center.
Chesney said the Gophers can throw passes of 60 to 70 yards in the air. He warned that the road environment includes an early start and a hostile atmosphere. The coach said there will be uncomfortable moments during the game. He stated that the team must practice mental, physical, and emotional toughness to handle those conditions.
