Fresno State vs. UCLA: A Gridiron Rivalry
The rivalry between Fresno State and UCLA is more than just a game; it's a clash of cultures, a battle of wills, and a testament to the enduring spirit of college football. This article delves into the history of this compelling matchup, highlighting key moments, memorable players, and the significance of each encounter.
A History of Upsets and Close Calls
The series between Fresno State and UCLA is marked by dramatic finishes and unexpected outcomes. Despite often entering as underdogs, the Bulldogs have consistently challenged the Bruins, creating a rivalry filled with excitement and memorable moments.
The 2000 Heartbreaker
One of the earliest and most poignant matchups occurred in 2000, featuring future NFL No. 1 pick David Carr as the Fresno State quarterback. Despite Carr's efforts, the Bulldogs fell short against a strong UCLA team. Former Fresno State head coach Pat Hill reflected on the game, noting that "Our football team never quit. That was a very good UCLA team, and we just came up short." The game also featured current head coaches Tim Skipper (Fresno State) and DeShaun Foster (UCLA) as players. Skipper, then a linebacker for the Bulldogs, recalled Foster, a star running back for the Bruins: "DeShaun was a very good player. Big guy. You had to get low on his legs to tackle him. If you went high, he'd run you over. And he was fast - a special, gifted athlete." Defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle vividly remembered Foster's impact: "I vividly remember him running for a 49-yard touchdown against us - that really was the difference in the game."
The Silicon Valley Bowl Victory (2003)
Fresno State secured its first-ever victory over UCLA in the 2003 Silicon Valley Bowl with a 17-9 win, marking the beginning of a significant winning streak for the Bulldogs in this series.
Ryan Mathews' Dominance (2008)
In 2008, former Bulldogs running back Ryan Mathews, who would later become a first-round NFL draft pick, had a standout performance, rushing for 166 yards and a touchdown in a 36-31 victory. Hill fondly remembered the atmosphere, saying, "It was great to see our kids go down and celebrate with the fans. It was great." The strong presence of Fresno State fans at the Rose Bowl made it feel like a home game for the Bulldogs. As one observer noted, "In 2008, when we got here, I was like, 'Oh yeah, this is like a home game. Look at all this red right here.'"
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McMaryion's Four Touchdowns (2018)
A decade later, in 2018, Fresno State returned to the Rose Bowl under head coach Jeff Tedford. Quarterback Marcus McMaryion, a Dinuba native, tied a program record with four rushing touchdowns, leading the Bulldogs to a dominant 38-14 victory - their largest margin of victory over UCLA. McMaryion celebrated the strong fan support, saying, "Amazing. It felt like a home game. Looking up and seeing all that red in the crowd - I mean, I can't thank the Red Wave enough."
The 2021 Upset
One of the most memorable games in the rivalry occurred in 2021, when Fresno State upset No. 13 UCLA 40-37. The game was decided by a last-minute touchdown pass from Jake Haener to Jalen Cropper with just 14 seconds remaining. Haener exclaimed, "What just happened?! That was insane!" Ronnie Rivers, a former Bulldog and current Rams running back, praised Haener's clutch performance: "He's the clutchest ever! Hall of Fame!" Former head coach Kalen DeBoer emphasized the team's resilience: "You talk about having a mindset of just fighting and playing until the very end." Haener's emotional connection to the team and the region was evident when he said, "I love this team. I love the Valley. Oh my God."
The Players and Coaches
The Fresno State-UCLA rivalry has featured a number of prominent players and coaches who have left their mark on the series. From David Carr and Ryan Mathews to Jake Haener and Jalen Cropper, these individuals have contributed to the rich history of this matchup. Coaches like Pat Hill, Jeff Tedford, Kalen DeBoer, and now Tim Skipper have all played a role in shaping the rivalry.
The Red Wave
The "Red Wave," Fresno State's passionate fan base, has consistently shown strong support for their team, particularly at the Rose Bowl. Their presence creates a vibrant atmosphere and provides a significant boost for the Bulldogs. Current Bulldogs, like defensive captain Devo Bridges, still remember the energy of that night. "Seeing the whole red section - the Red Wave right there - it was electric," Bridges recalled. "After the game, we ran over and celebrated with them. We feel that energy for sure."
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