LEADER OF THE PAC

son, leads the league with 107.6 rushing yards per game.

Bruins quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson credits the uptick in production to coach Chip Kelly simplifying the offense and identifying his players’ strengths as the season has progressed.

“Now he knows what he has on offense, the type of playmakers he has and what they do well,” Thompson-Robinson said. “That was really the big part, knowing what your guys do well. Now he’s finally found that and is putting us in the best position to win now.”

UCLA is averaging a league-best 37 points per game in Pac-12 play after averaging just 14.0 points in nonconference losses to Cincinnati, San Diego State, and Oklahoma.

Through nine games, the Utes lead the nation in rushing defense, allowing 56.0 yards per game and 2.45 yards per carry. Utah also tops the Pac-12 in total defense (246.3), scoring defense (12.2), third down conversion defense (.279), first downs defense (122), and passing yards allowed (190.3).

ISN’T THAT SPECIAL

A key special teams battle could influence who is able to gain an early edge.

The Bruins rank second among FBS teams in punt returns, averaging 22.5 yards per return. Kyle Phillips has ripped off three returns covering 30 or more yards this season. Meanwhile, Utah’s punt coverage team has been stingy. The Utes are second in the Pac-12 in punt return defense, allowing 4.25 yards per return.

BALL CONTROL BRUINS

UCLA’s ability to control the ball has been improving. The Bruins have run an average of 81 plays over their last five games compared to 63.2 plays per game for their opponents.

In the last six games, UCLA is averaging 478.0 yards of total offense. The Bruins are gaining six yards per play against Pac-12 opponents after averaging 4.1 yards per play against nonconference opponents.