MINNESOTA HANDS UCLA THEIR FIFTH CONSECUTIVE LOSS

Oct 12, 2024

3 min read

Updated: 2 hours ago

PASADENA, CA - OCTOBER 12: Minnesota Golden Gophers quarterback Max Brosmer (16) passes the ball during the game between the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the UCLA Bruins on October 12, 2024, at Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, CA. (Photo by David Dennis/Icon Sportswire)

The setting of the Rose Bowl Stadium is simply stunning, a true architectural gem with the San Gabriel Mountains as a backdrop. The sky-blue hues worn by the UCLA Bruins stand out beautifully against the landscape, adding to the unique atmosphere of this iconic stadium, rich in history and best known for hosting the prestigious Rose Bowl Game.

Since 1982, it has been the home of the UCLA Bruins, who now compete in the Big Ten conference. The stadium has also hosted five Super Bowls, making it one of the most memorable sites in American football. In 2021, UCLA reduced the seating capacity to 69,747 by installing a tarp featuring the U-C-L-A logo in the north end zone, adding a decorative touch to this historic venue (just the Jordan brand logo next to UCLA’s initials is photo-worthy on its own).

This season, the Bruins have struggled, managing only one win against Hawaii (16-13) and suffering four consecutive losses to tough opponents (Indiana, LSU, Oregon, and Penn State). While these results are disappointing, they can be partly explained by the strength of the teams Deshaun Foster's squad has faced. Nevertheless, the Rose Bowl remains a temple of football where each game is an event, making it a pleasant place to spend a Saturday night.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Golden Gophers have experienced ups and downs, with three wins and as many losses. After a close defeat to Michigan in Ann Arbor and a recent victory against USC, the Gophers arrived in Pasadena (located north of LA) determined to turn the tide against the Bruins and complete a sweep of the two Los Angeles teams.

The kickoff, at 6:00 pm, was accompanied by the gentle twilight, creating a unique atmosphere before the lights came on at 6:15 pm. The stands, sparsely filled at the start of the game, gradually filled up as the game progressed, with some fans likely extending their tailgating.

Game Recap:

Minnesota struggled to find its rhythm on its first two possessions, while UCLA opened the scoring with a 59-yard drive capped off by a touchdown from Keegan Jones. Bruins quarterback Ethan Garbers started strong, completing 9 of 10 passes for 92 yards and managing the pressure from the Golden Gophers' defense well.

Minnesota continued to struggle on offense, despite a few impressive defensive plays, like Anthony Smith's sack on Garbers for a 7-yard loss. A pass deflected by Cody Lindenberg led to an interception for Minnesota, but their offense remained ineffective, missing a field goal attempt.

Just before halftime, T.J. Harden helped the Bruins enter the red zone after breaking several tackles. They added 3 points with a 34-yard field goal by Mateen Bhaghani, extending the lead to 10-0 at halftime. Both teams' running games were limited, with Minnesota gaining just 26 rushing yards and UCLA only 10, but the Bruins dominated the passing game with 171 yards compared to Minnesota's 86.

UCLA received the ball to start the second half, but Minnesota's defense set the tone with a fumble (recovered by UCLA) and a sack by Jack Henderson on Garbers. This gave energy to the Gophers' offense, which moved 46 yards in five plays, finishing with a 12-yard touchdown catch by Elijah Spencer. Minnesota closed the gap to 7-10. Shortly after, an interception by Koi Perich put the Gophers in a strong position. A 2-yard touchdown run by Darius Taylor gave Minnesota the lead for the first time, 14-10.

With two minutes left, UCLA regained the lead at 17-14, but a defensive lapse allowed Gophers quarterback Max Brosmer to throw a 4-yard touchdown pass with just 27 seconds remaining. Minnesota ultimately won 18-17, sealing the game with a second interception by Koi Perich.

This game at the Rose Bowl was a real emotional rollercoaster. The Bruins displayed some impressive offensive plays, but the resilience of the Golden Gophers, with decisive actions late in the game, allowed them to turn the tide in front of a crowd of 42,012 spectators.

Final Score: Minnesota Golden Gophers 21 - UCLA Bruins 17

Performances and Stats:

UCLA Bruins: