Moving on with the preseason predictions, we arrive at the UCLA game. The last two games against UCLA have been among the more frustrating losses in recent history. Both were games that left a bad taste in WSU fan's mouths. Games that WSU could have won or even maybe should have won, but couldn't get it done in the end. Will it be a different result this season? Let's take a closer look at UCLA and see what you think.
UCLA Profile:
2011 record: 6-8
2011 S&P+ rating: 200.1 (WSU 175.3)
2011 road record: 1-6
Returning starters: 14
Athlon Sports preseason ranking: 42 (WSU 51)
Phil Steele power rating: 129.66 (WSU 123.32)
All-time record vs. WSU: 39-18-1
Last meeting: UCLA 28 vs. WSU 25 (2011)
Bill C Stat Profile: LINK
Bill C Preview: LINK
Jim Mora, Jr., has seemingly done almost everything right (other than offering Diddy's son a scholarship, at least) in his first six months on the job. But starting in another two and a half months, success on the field is all that will matter. Mora put together a solid coaching staff and has quite a bit of talent to work with, and while I cannot see the Bruins challenging USC for Pac-12 South superiority anytime soon, I can certainly talk them into a solid, seven- or eight-win season, at least if Mora is able to do a better job of coaxing the potential out of former star recruits better than his predecessor was.
UCLA was terrible on the road last season, but this game will have a much different look than previous years. Both teams have new coaching staffs and after playing at UCLA the last two years, the game is in Pullman this season. Will that be enough for WSU to pull out a win?