### Nebraska Eyes Bowl Eligibility in Clash Against UCLA

As the Nebraska Cornhuskers approach the final stretch of their season, they find themselves on the cusp of bowl eligibility, needing just one more victory. The upcoming game against UCLA offers a golden opportunity to secure that crucial sixth win, reminiscent of situations head coach Matt Rhule has successfully navigated in past seasons.

Nebraska, with a current record needing just one additional win, squares off against a UCLA team that, while below average this season, is coming off its best game after a bye week. Although the Bruins have faced the toughest schedule in the nation, they remain an opponent the Huskers can overcome, provided they avoid turnovers and play efficiently on special teams.

The quarterback comparison this week reveals interesting trends. Both quarterbacks diverged early in the season, but their total EPA (Expected Points Added) is now converging. UCLA's Ethan Garbers managed a remarkable 4-0 touchdown to interception ratio against Rutgers, but had thrown a pick in every other game. Conversely, Nebraska's Dylan Raiola began a streak of three straight games with an interception starting with Rutgers.

Statistically, UCLA promises to gain yards through the air against Nebraska. They rank 37th nationally in passing success rate but only 84th in EPA per pass. Their tendency to throw interceptions—a concerning 1.3 per game, the highest in the Big Ten—has hindered their otherwise promising potential to move the ball effectively.

This game could be an ideal setting for Nebraska's offense to regain momentum. UCLA's passing defense, despite facing the most pass attempts in the Big Ten, allows high completion percentages and numerous touchdowns. Dylan Raiola should find opportunities to pass for 200 yards with a completion rate nearing 70% against such a defense.

In contrast, UCLA’s ground game struggles significantly. They rank last nationally in both rushing yards and rushing touchdowns per game with their quarterback Garbers responsible for their longest run of the season at 49 yards. The Bruins' inability to generate effective rushing plays puts extra pressure on their aerial attack, which Nebraska’s defense will look to exploit.

Nebraska's running game, however, showed positive signs in their recent match against Ohio State, with running back Dante Dowdell playing a standout role. Raiola also contributed on the ground, helping the team surpass the 100-yard rushing mark for only the second time against Big Ten opponents. Although UCLA boasts a strong run defense, ranked 33rd in EPA per rush allowed, Nebraska’s balanced attack could prove decisive.

Both teams have faced formidable challenges this season, with UCLA's record of 2-5 not entirely reflective of their competitive outings against top-ranked teams. Nebraska, having experienced its own share of tough matchups, including a win over Colorado, appears well-prepared to handle the Bruins. A strong performance could see the Huskers securing a comfortable victory and clinching bowl eligibility.