UCLA Bruins Triumph Over Fresno State Bulldogs in Defensive Battle at the Rose Bowl
Pasadena, CA - In a hard-fought contest on November 30, 2024, the UCLA Bruins edged out the Fresno State Bulldogs with a 20-13 victory at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. This win marked UCLA’s fourth in their last five games, showcasing a remarkable turnaround under first-year head coach DeShaun Foster.
First Half: Defensive Standoff
The opening half was characterized by staunch defensive efforts from both teams. UCLA managed to break the deadlock with a field goal, taking a 3-0 lead. Fresno State responded with a field goal of their own, leveling the score at 3-3. Both defenses held firm, resulting in a low-scoring first half.
Second Half: Offensive Sparks
The Bruins initiated the second half with a touchdown drive, highlighted by quarterback Ethan Garbers connecting with tight end Moliki Matavao for a 15-yard score, extending their lead to 10-3. Fresno State’s quarterback, Mikey Keene, answered with a touchdown pass, tying the game at 10-10. UCLA reclaimed the lead with another touchdown, making it 17-10. The Bulldogs added a field goal, narrowing the gap to 17-13. A late field goal by UCLA sealed the 20-13 victory.
Key Player Performances
• UCLA Bruins:
• Quarterback Ethan Garbers: Completed 26 of 40 passes for 289 yards and one touchdown.
• Tight End Moliki Matavao: Recorded eight receptions for 120 yards and a touchdown.
• Fresno State Bulldogs:
• Quarterback Mikey Keene: Completed 30 of 43 passes for 219 yards and one touchdown.
• Wide Receiver Mac Dalena: Led with seven receptions totaling 47 yards.
Coaching Perspectives
Coach DeShaun Foster expressed pride in his team’s resilience, stating, “Our defense played exceptionally well, and the offense executed when it mattered most.” Fresno State’s interim head coach, Tim Skipper, acknowledged the hard-fought nature of the game, noting, “Both teams left it all on the field; unfortunately, we came up short.”
Implications and Looking Ahead
This victory improved UCLA’s record, reflecting a strong finish to their season under Coach Foster. Fresno State, despite the loss, secured a bowl appearance and is set to face Northern Illinois in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl on December 23.
