UCLA football leads Virginia 17-9 at halftime
True freshman quarterback Josh Rosen is 17 for 22 in the first half for 175 yards, with two touchdowns and no interceptions. (Austin Yu/Daily Bruin senior staff)
By Matt Joye
Sept. 5, 2015 1:54 p.m.
PASADENA — Josh Rosen’s first play provided a glimmer of hope that the hype was for real.
The true freshman quarterback launched a 50-yard pass down the left sideline to redshirt junior receiver Kenneth Walker. It was on the money, just beyond the Virginia defender’s outstretched arms.
Walker dropped the pass, but the pinpoint throw provided a foretaste of what was to come from Rosen for the rest of the first half.
The former five-star recruit was just about that good in the first half. He threw a 30-yard streak for a touchdown. He led a two-minute drill at the end of the half. He executed screen passes efficiently. He dodged sacks.
At the end of the first half, Rosen is 17 for 22 with 175 yards, leading UCLA to a 17-9 advantage over Virginia.
If not for Rosen’s efficient passing, the Bruins could very well be tied with the Cavaliers, if not behind. Virginia has diced up UCLA’s defense for three long scoring drives, though they’ve failed to find the end zone so far. The Bruins, on the other hand, have relied almost solely on Rosen’s passing. They’ve netted just 28 yards on eight rushes in the first half.
As the second half begins, Rosen seemingly has just one thing left to do to put an exclamation point on his opening act: Lead a game-winning drive.
Compiled by Matthew Joye, Bruin Sports senior staff.
