WATCH: TE Jack Pedersen looks ahead to UCLA's matchup against New Mexico
UCLA was back on the field Monday as the team heads into a short week looking to get on track. The Bruins fell for the second time in as many weeks Saturday in a road loss to UNLV. The Bruins had to climb back from a 23-point hole and ultimately couldn’t overcome that hurdle in Las Vegas.
The team will be back home at the Rose Bowl this week as it welcomes New Mexico to Pasadena. Head coach DeShaun Foster has expressed frustration with UCLA’s 0-2 start. However, he has remained optimistic that the Bruins can turn things around going into the rest of the season.
Jack Pederson spoke with reporters Monday about the latest loss and the rough start to the season for UCLA. The veteran tight end has the same confidence as his head coach that the Bruins can figure out their problems ahead of Big Ten play.
“All of us, myself included, are just ecstatic for a new opportunity to get on the field,” Pedersen said. “And really show what this team’s about and how we play Bruin football. It’s a great opportunity. New Mexico is a great team, and they’re coming to the Rose Bowl amped to play us. And, we’re amped to play them.
“We’re excited, and I think we’re looking forward to Friday night.”
The Bruins outscored UNLV 20-7 in the second half, and that strong showing late is providing the team with confidence this week.
“I think the second half is something to really look forward to,” Pedersen said. ” … A lot to work on, a lot to get better on. We came out here and had a great day. So, we’re really excited about about the opportunity on Friday to go out there and play.”
Jack Pedersen post-practice media session
Video recorded by BruinBlitz staff writer Tracy McDannald.
