UCLA Defense Ranks First Nationally as Bruins Aim for 9-0 Start
Coordinator Colin Hitschler demands higher standards from his unit ahead of a Saturday matchup against physical Minnesota defense.
By Jonathan Ramirez ·
UCLA defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler challenged his players to raise their intensity during Wednesday's practice. The demand came as the Bruins prepare to face Minnesota on Saturday at 9 a.m. PT. Hitschler wants the team to meet the high bar set by an undefeated record.
The UCLA defense currently leads the country in forced turnovers and fumbles recovered. It also ranks second in interceptions, passing efficiency defense, and performance on third down. The unit places seventh in total defense. These numbers reflect the team's strong start to the season.
Hitschler specifically called out defensive back Osirus Gilbert on Wednesday morning. He used the moment to remind the group about the work required to sustain their success. He noted that players often relax after winning, which can lead to a drop in performance.
“Everybody knows the right way to do things and the right way to train, especially in a game that is this hard,” Hitschler said. He added that natural inclination is to ease up when success arrives. He stressed the need to call out slipping habits immediately to fix them.
The Bruins have won eight straight games. This marks their first 8-0 start since 2005. Coach Bob Chesney leads the program as it seeks a ninth victory. A win in Minneapolis would move UCLA to 9-0 for the first time since 1998.
Hitschler said he welcomes tough coaching from his own staff. He accepts criticism from players, Chesney, and offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy. He believes coaches must hold players to a standard to maximize their ability.
“Any job of a coach is to help you maximize your ability, and the players appreciate coaches that are holding them to a standard to make that happen,” Hitschler said. He noted that coaches must also stay focused on winning the next play every day.
Linebacker Sammy Omosigho was named a semifinalist for the Lombardi Award on Wednesday. The award recognizes the top lineman or linebacker in the nation. Omosigho's leadership extends beyond the defense, according to Kennedy, who noted the player's positive attitude and hard work in practice.
The offense faces challenges converting third downs. UCLA went 6 for 16 against Michigan State and 5 for 13 against Nevada. Kennedy is using video clips in practice to address these inconsistencies. He told his players that hard practice leads to good execution on game day.
Minnesota presents a physical challenge for the Bruins. The Gophers have forced 14 turnovers this season, including six fumble recoveries. Senior linebacker Maverick Baranowski has 62 tackles and two forced fumbles. Defensive lineman TJ Bush Jr. leads the team with five sacks. Chesney expects his team to play its most physical opponent of the season.
