GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Stingy defense has long been a hallmark of Stanford teams under coach David Shaw, but the Cardinal has been most vulnerable in 2018 when opposing offenses can establish a consistent run against them. Stanford surrendered 161 yards to Notre Dame RB Dexter Williams, 160 yards to Utah RB Zack Moss and 148 yards to Washington RB Myles Gaskin.
All three were Stanford losses.
If UCLA can get Joshua Kelley rolling, the Bruins can dictate the game’s pace on their own terms. It’s of particular importance early; Stanford fell behind in the first half of each of those three defeats.
DRAFT SLANT
–OT Andre James has played a critical role in UCLA’s resurgent run game this season, with RB Joshua Kelley operating routinely on James’ left side. James has also been key in improving the Bruins’ sack yields. James is a 2020 draft prospect, ranked No. 12 among the class by NFLDraftScout.com His stock could rise in the next year, however.
ROSTER REPORT:
–QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who suffered a shoulder injury Oct. 20 and aggravated it Nov. 3, appeared in special packages against USC. Senior QB Wilton Speight is likely to again start the season finale, but Thompson-Robinson should factor into the game plan.
–DB Colin Samuel remains questionable with a knee injury that has kept him out for the month.
–DB Kenny Churchwell III is questionable for Saturday due to a knee injury.
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