UCLA defense ranks No. 1 in forced turnovers as Bruins target 9-0 record

UCLA defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler told his players on Wednesday that they must stop relaxing after their undefeated start. The Bruins are 8-0, a record not achieved by the team since 2005. Hitschler wants the group to meet the high standards set during this perfect season.

His defense currently leads the nation in forced turnovers and fumbles recovered. It also ranks second in interceptions, passing efficiency defense, and defense on third down. The unit sits seventh in total defense as it prepares for a game against Minnesota. That contest is scheduled for 9 a.m. PT on Saturday.

Hitschler singled out defensive back Osirus Gilbert during a Wednesday morning session. He said the group knows the right way to train. He noted that it is difficult to outplay one's natural ability and master techniques. Hitschler argued that a player's natural inclination is to relax after success. He said it is hard to wake up and grind through meetings and practice every day. He stated that any slip must be called out and fixed immediately to hold players to the standard.

The coordinator said he welcomes tough coaching from his players and staff. He cited Coach Bob Chesney and offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy as people who hold him accountable. UCLA aims to improve to 9-0 this season, which would be the first time since 1998. Hitschler said a coach's job is to help maximize a player's ability. He added that players appreciate coaches who hold them to a standard to make that happen.

Linebacker Sammy Omosigho was named a semifinalist for the Lombardi Award on Wednesday. The award goes to the nation's top lineman or linebacker. Omosigho is considered Hitschler's best overall defensive player. His impact has spread beyond the defensive unit to influence how Kennedy runs offensive practice.

Kennedy said he sees Omosigho's leadership in how the linebacker prepares the team. He noted that Omosigho is constantly talking and maintains a positive attitude. Kennedy said Omosigho always has a smile on his face. He described Omosigho's practice intensity as contagious because he works extremely hard.

The UCLA offense must avoid the mistakes it made against Michigan State two weeks ago at the Rose Bowl. Running backs Anthony Woods and Jaivian Thomas each fumbled in the first half of that game. Minnesota has forced 14 turnovers this season, including six fumble recoveries. The Gophers emphasize punching the ball out during games.

Coach Chesney said his team will face its most physical opponent yet. Minnesota features senior fifth-year linebacker Maverick Baranowski. He is 6-foot-2 and weighs 230 pounds. Baranowski has recorded 62 tackles, including 3.5 tackles for loss. He also has two forced fumbles, one interception, two quarterback hits, and one sack. Senior defensive lineman TJ Bush Jr. leads the Gophers with five sacks, seven tackles for loss, and three pass breakups.

UCLA has struggled to convert third downs. The team went 6 for 16 against Michigan State and 5 for 13 against Nevada. Kennedy said he is addressing these inconsistencies this week. He told players that practice matters. He said the team looks at game clips where they performed poorly and notes a lack of hard work in practice. He added that when players execute and practice hard, they have a good Saturday.