Nebraska Rallies to Defeat UCLA 28-21, Fueled by Lateef‘s Performance
Pasadena, CA - Nebraska secured a 28-21 victory over UCLA at the rose Bowl Saturday night, rebounding from a previous loss and heading into their bye week with momentum. Quarterback T.J. Lateef, making his first start in his hometown, led the huskers with poise and precision, earning praise from teammates and coaches alike.
The win was notably significant for Nebraska following a challenging week, according to comments made post-game. “Bouncing back from last week was huge,” a Nebraska player stated. “Then going back home with a win is big going into the bye week. We can recover our bodies and get ready for Penn State which is another tough opponent we got next.”
lateef’s preparation and competitive drive where highlighted by his teammates. “I’m proud of him man,super proud of him,” one player said. “Everybody on this team knows it started in practice and he was really focused on the little details. I remember we had a team compete early in the week,and he told coach Rhule the next day,”Can we do team compete again?” That just shows the competitor he is.”
A key play showcasing Lateef’s connection with his receivers came on a wheel route touchdown. “Yeah, I told him before the play that it was a touchdown,” the receiver explained. “I really tried to do my job of selling the run and acting like I was just going to run a flat. Then once I saw the safety go over,I knew TJ was going to hit me right away and he made a great throw.”
Lateef himself emphasized a “what’s next mentality” during a tense fourth quarter. “I just had a what’s next mentality. Just breathing and taking it one snap at a time and trying to execute to the best of my ability.” He also expressed gratitude for the coaches’ confidence in him, stating, “It’s a blessing. They got confidence in me. I got confidence in them. That’s how we’re going to continue to be great.”
Another Nebraska player noted Lateef’s impact on the game’s dynamic. “Anytime I get a chance to be the spark for the team is great. I was really excited the first play that he (TJ Lateef) pulled it because the team thoght I was going to be getting the ball the whole game. So when he pulled it and ran, I was like okay he’s locked in and I knew that right away.”
The receiver also celebrated a personal milestone. “Yeah, definitely, I don’t think I went over 100 receiving yards ever since I’ve been here. Just giving credit to God and also TJ for hitting me on those and offensive line protection as well.”
