After a lackluster performance against Hawaii, the UCLA Bruins offense is facing serious questions despite securing the win.
The Bruins struggled to establish a rhythm, particularly in the running game, which was puzzling given the wealth of talent in their backfield.
With the Big Ten opener against Indiana looming, UCLA needs to reassess its offensive strategy, especially its commitment to the run game if they hope to avoid a similar showing.
The 2023 Washington Commanders
In Bienemy’s previous role, he was the offensive coordinator of the Washington Commanders last season. If we take a look at their scheme and results from last year you can see a trend come out in the form of the pass game.
The Commanders were obviously not a great team which led to a lot of passing, with QB Sam Howell averaging 36 pass attempts per game.
When playing from behind against Hawaii, these same pass concepts appeared, the only problem being that Bienemy isn’t coaching Patrick Mahomes anymore, or even Sam Howell for that matter.
This led to two interceptions from Garbers just not making good decisions. The offense passed 19 times in the first half versus running 7 times, which shouldn’t be the case so early in the game.
Looking at Washington’s run game from last season, Brian Robinson’s role is who TJ Harden should be utilized like. Versus Indiana, look for TJ to get more involved in the run game with hopefully better offensive line play as well.
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UCLA Bruins Matchup Vs Indiana
Indiana comes into this game 2-0 after two non-conference games against FIU, and Western Illinois.
They beat FIU 31-7, but surprisingly gave up a decent amount of yards on the ground with FIU’s main RB averaging 6 yards per carry and catching one ball for 8 yards.
In Week 2, Indiana throttled Western Illinois 77-3. The Leathernecks are clearly a far inferior team, but anytime you outscore an opponent by 74 points and outgain them by 580 yards, you should take notice.
Looking forward, UCLA should focus on getting their two main RBs involved early and often, and even simulating runs with screens and other variations if the offensive line doesn’t hold up well. If you look at Jerick McKinnon’s season in 2022 (Bienemy’s last season with KC) his involvement in the offense is what the team should look at.
Related: 2024 Heisman Watch
Adjustments Are Key
Ultimately, the UCLA Bruins offense needs to find balance if they hope to compete against tougher competition. The lack of commitment to the run game against Hawaii was a missed opportunity to take advantage of one of their biggest strengths against a weaker opponent. With Indiana’s defense showing some susceptibility to the run, the Bruins have an opportunity to right the ship.
Fans should expect a heavier dose of Harden, more creative play-calling involving Jones, and hopefully fewer mistakes from Garbers. If UCLA can make these adjustments, they’ll be in a much better position to secure a win in their Big Ten debut.