What Is 2007 UCLA Bruins football team

Overview

The 2007 UCLA Bruins football team competed in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision as a member of the Pacific-10 Conference. Led by head coach Karl Dorrell, the team struggled to maintain consistency, finishing the regular season with a 6–6 record and qualifying for a bowl game.

Despite high expectations following a strong 2006 season, the 2007 campaign was marked by offensive inconsistency and defensive lapses. The team’s performance culminated in a narrow loss in the Las Vegas Bowl, sealing a disappointing end to the year and prompting major coaching changes.

• Started the season ranked No. 19 in the AP Poll but dropped after a 0–2 start, including a loss to unranked Utah.
• Quarterback Ben Olson began the season as starter but suffered a shoulder injury, leading to increased playing time for Patrick Cowan and later Kevin Prince.
• Defensive standout Alterraun Verner recorded 3 interceptions and 48 total tackles, emerging as a key player on the back end.
• Offensive struggles were evident, as the team averaged just 20.5 points per game, down from 29.8 in 2006.
• Home games were played at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, with an average attendance of 68,000 per game.

Performance Breakdown

The 2007 season showcased both flashes of potential and persistent shortcomings across all phases of play. Injuries, particularly on offense, disrupted continuity and limited the team’s ability to build momentum.

• Season opener: Lost 24–21 to BYU, setting a negative tone despite a competitive effort.
• Key win: Defeated No. 13 California 42–17 in October, marking their most dominant performance of the year.
• Defensive ranking: Allowed 22.1 points per game, finishing 58th nationally in scoring defense.
• Special teams: Kai Forbath contributed reliably, making 18 of 22 field goals, including a long of 49 yards.
• Running game: Josh Shipp and Chris Markey combined for 947 rushing yards, but lacked a consistent ground threat.
• Passing efficiency: Quarterbacks completed 58% of passes for 1,876 yards, but threw 14 interceptions.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 2007 UCLA Bruins to the previous season highlights a decline in performance and stability. The table below outlines key statistical and outcome differences.

The data shows a clear regression in offensive production and overall results. While the defense remained relatively stable, the inability to score consistently undermined the team’s competitiveness. The one-point loss in the bowl game underscored the narrow margins that defined the season.

Why It Matters

The 2007 season was a turning point for UCLA football, symbolizing the end of the Karl Dorrell era and prompting a reevaluation of the program’s direction. The underwhelming performance led to significant changes in leadership and recruiting strategy.

• Karl Dorrell was fired on November 12, 2007, after five seasons, finishing with a 35–27 overall record.
• Interim coach DeWayne Walker led the team in the Las Vegas Bowl, beginning a transition to new leadership.
• Rick Neuheisel was hired in December 2007, bringing a more aggressive offensive philosophy.
• Recruiting focus shifted toward developing dual-threat quarterbacks and faster defensive backs.
• The Las Vegas Bowl loss was the first in school history to a team from the Mountain West Conference.
• Attendance and fan engagement dipped slightly, reflecting growing frustration with the program’s stagnation.

The 2007 season remains a cautionary chapter in UCLA football history, illustrating how quickly momentum can erode without consistent quarterback health and offensive execution. It set the stage for a new era aimed at restoring competitiveness in the Pac-10.