Saturday’s matchup: UCLA

vs.

Cal’s annual match-up with its little brother UCLA is tomorrow, underneath the night lights and ABC TV cameras. The weather will be partly cloudy, at crisp 56°F.

The Bears are coming off a bye week and a 7-week winning streak, while the Bruins have lost the last 3. Here are a few thoughts about the game:

ESPN‘s Bruce Feldman: “Picks”

No. 10 Cal 31, UCLA 14: Quietly the Bruins have really improved on D — especially against the run — under first-year UCLA D-coordinator DeWayne Walker. But I think the wheels are starting to come off the wagon for the Bruins, who have now lost three games in row. Expect a big day for the Golden Bears’ skill guys. Thing that has me sold: The Bruins are sinking.

Sports Network: “Pac-10 leading California hosts UCLA”

California has finally reached the pinnacle of the Pac-10, but must remain focused, especially against a UCLA team hungry for some success. UCLA’s defense may cause some problems early for Cal, but in the end, the Golden Bears’ skill positions will provide the difference in the game. Sports Network Predicted Outcome: California 34, UCLA 20

Scout.com: “Bruins Visit Berkeley as Home Stretch Begins”

Cal will win if: They prevent the Bruins from running the ball. If UCLA can’t run they have to pass, and they do not have the weapons to compete with the Bears in the track meet that would result.
UCLA will win if: They can run the ball steadily and productively, turning yardage into scores and shortening the game. They Bruins have had trouble getting points on the board, and dominating between the 20s – if they manage that – won’t do the job against the Bears. If they can also keep Longshore, Lynch and company off the field, they have a lucky-puncher’s chance.
Prediction: UCLA is traditionally a formidable opponent, but the scheduling gods smiled on the Bears this year as they come off a bye week and get a Bruin team on the downslide. Cal 38, UCLA 17

ESPN‘s Ted Miller: “Pac-10 Notebook”

Tedford shouldn’t need much to motivate his players too much against the Bruins, and not only because the Rose Bowl is at stake. Last year, 10th-ranked Cal led No. 18 UCLA 40-28 midway through the fourth quarter before yielding 19 unanswered points to lose 47-40. The Bears surrendered 299 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns to Maurice Drew, including an 81-yard punt return for a score. Cal lost despite rolling up 545 yards of offense, including 330 yards rushing.

USA Today: “Weekend Preview”

No. 11 California couldn’t have asked for a more productive bye week. It’s alone atop the Pac-10 standings thanks to Southern California’s loss, and RB Marshawn Lynch was able to rest his sore ankles. He should be at full speed to help QB Nate Longshore. UCLA DE Justin Hickman must pick up the pressure. The Bruins have lost three in a row. Opening-day starter Ben Olson (knee) has returned to practice, but Pat Cowan will stay at QB another week. Bears CB Daymeion Hughes has swiped seven passes and broken up six more.

Eric’s prediction: 45-20, Cal.

Steve’s prediction: 49-24, Cal