UCLA, currently struggling with a 1-3 record this season, faces a daunting challenge as they head to Beaver Stadium to take on the No. 7 ranked Penn State this weekend. The stakes are high, and the situation is becoming increasingly complicated for the Bruins.
This matchup marks a historic moment as UCLA will become the first West Coast team in the Big Ten to compete at noon on the East Coast. They have already faced tough competition this season, suffering defeats against ranked teams, and now they may be without their starting quarterback, or at least not at his full potential.
Ethan Garbers, the redshirt senior quarterback, missed the end of UCLA’s 34-13 loss to Oregon due to an unspecified injury. Following the game, he sat out practice on Monday to focus on recovery, allowing backup Justyn Martin to take the lead with the first-team offense. During Tuesday’s practice, local media spotted Garbers riding a stationary bike, but by Wednesday, head coach Deshaun Foster revealed that Garbers was limited to mental reps while Martin continued to practice as the starter.
When asked if Garbers would play against Penn State, Foster was noncommittal, saying, “No, most definitely not. Not yet.” However, he noted that Garbers is determined to play unless the coaching staff decides otherwise. Foster spoke highly of Penn State’s formidable defense, joking that “everything” about it stands out, particularly mentioning defensive end Abdul Carter, defensive tackle Zane Durant, and safety Jaylen Reed.
Foster used his scouting report on the Nittany Lions’ defense to prepare Martin, emphasizing the importance of quick decision-making. “You can’t hold onto the ball,” he stated, acknowledging the strength of Penn State’s defensive line. He also stressed the need for Martin to be ready for the intense atmosphere, as this will be his first experience playing in such a charged environment.
In response, Penn State’s head coach, James Franklin, indicated his team would prepare as if Garbers would be under center. Freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer donned Garbers’ No. 4 jersey for the scout team, while walk-on Jack Lambert wore Martin’s No. 6.
Garbers has had a challenging season, completing just over 57% of his passes, averaging 202 yards per game, with three touchdowns and six interceptions. He has also been sacked 12 times. His running ability is limited within UCLA’s pro-style offense, further complicating the team’s situation.
Franklin commented on the uncertainty surrounding Garbers’ availability, saying, “We’re controlling the things that we can control. From what I have seen and heard, they’re planning on playing him, if he’s available.” He noted the team would focus on game tape for their preparations.
Martin, a redshirt sophomore and former four-star recruit, has had limited experience, having thrown only seven passes throughout his college career, with one completion for seven yards against Oregon. He is known for his running capabilities, but his inexperience adds another layer of uncertainty for the Bruins.
Penn State’s defensive players expect UCLA to adopt a pass-heavy strategy, as the Bruins have thrown significantly more than they have run this season. With UCLA trailing in their last three games, the running game has struggled, averaging just 2.5 yards per carry.
Linebacker Tony Rojas summarized their approach, saying, “We’re treating it like he’s going to play. We can’t really know who’s going to play, but we’re just practicing like we normally do.” He emphasized the importance of stopping the run first and being prepared for whatever the Bruins throw their way. Regardless of who is at quarterback, Penn State’s defense is ready to rise to the challenge.