3 keys to a UCLA upset of Nebraska

The UCLA Bruins will look to keep their momentum going into the break week as they prepare to take on a strong Nebraska team at Memorial Stadium.

This game will really show whether the Bruins made the most of the break and were able to build on their Week 8 win over Rutgers.

Here are three keys to a UCLA win Saturday in Lincoln:

Pressure on Huskers QB Dylan Raiola

Raiola has been impressive for Nebraska this season, helping them get to the brink of a bowl game. But as a freshman, Raiola makes mistakes and ranks third in the Big Ten with seven interceptions thrown.

Dominating the trenches would be huge for UCLA's defensive line, but it won't be easy. The Bruins rank last in the conference in sacks and 13th in tackles for loss. Getting into the opponent's backfield wasn't her specialty.

If the break week was about building pressure up front, perhaps that will come through on Saturday.

Limiting the Huskers' pass rush

On the other hand, Nebraska is excellent at putting pressure on the quarterback, ranking third in the Big Ten with 23.0 sacks.

The total number of tackles with loss is also 53.0.

The good thing for UCLA is that there is continuity along the offensive line and continuity allows for good communication, which Bruins coach DeShaun Foster emphasized this week and would be key for this UCLA offensive line on Saturday.

Finding a local identity

UCLA is the only team in the conference not currently averaging at least 100 rushing yards per game. In fact, it's not even close – the Bruins have produced just 64.6 rushing yards per game through seven games.

Unfortunately for UCLA, the Huskers rank fifth nationally in run defense, allowing just 92.1 yards per game on the ground.

Taking away that strength from Nebraska would greatly improve UCLA's chances on the road on Saturday. It's far-fetched to believe that worst offense in the conference will be outstanding against one of the best run defenses in the country, but we've seen teams address vulnerabilities after a bye a week prior.

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