Bumped. GO BRUINS. - N

We were all excited about UCLA Football's opening game - ESPN on Labor Day, Rick Neuheisal and Norm Chow's Bruin coaching debut, playing an SEC team at the Rose Bowl in front of a national audience.  What more could we ask for?

Well, we asked for more and we most certainly got it. 

Let's face it, we were hoping for the best but definitely prepared for the worst. When I saw those 4 interceptions in the first half, to say that I felt concern would put it mildly.  But we were only down 7 after throwing 4 picks?  I kept thinking "all we have to do is keep it close, come on guys...come on"  Then the 2nd half started and the game changed.  This team was gelling even in the wake of losing 3 more starters to injury.  Watching Kraft in the 2nd half was inspiring.  He was poised, calm and made sharp passes and the defense continued to play tough, hard-nose football on every down. 

Being on the sideline I could really get a feel for the mood on the bench and all I saw were full "passion buckets" and "relentless optimism".  There were so many former players there rooting their former teammates and friends on, adding to the magic on the field.  Last night, the Rose Bowl was a field of dreams for all UCLA players and fans.  WE WON!  I need to keep pinching myself and saying that out loud.  WE WON!!! 

Oh and last Monday night I was reminded that being a videographer is very difficult for a true fan like me, so pardon the crazy camera work....  :)

Videos after the jump ...

  Kraft connects with Ryan Moya for an 8 yard reception at the 3 yard line! 35 seconds remaining - UCLA down 4...

  Kraft throws a 3 yard TD to Ryan Moya to put the Bruins up by 3 with 27 seconds remaining in the 4th.

 The sidelines go WILD after Kraft hits Moya for TD that put the Bruins up 3 with 27 seconds left in the 4th.Check out all the former players going crazy - Shannon Tevaga, Justin London, Justin Hickman, Brandon Breazell, Junior Taylor, Rodney Van, Eric "McPick" McNeal among others.

  Lincoln goes wide left!!! Time to rush the field!!! 

 The crowd ROARS and does a Bruin spell out into the night at the Rose Bowl. Rick then takes the mic and thanks the fans and pumps everyone up even more (if that was possible) Unfortunately, since I was filming from the field you can't hear him too well, but you get the idea. :)

GO BRUINS!!!