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Maryland Terrapins vs UCLA Bruins Betting Preview
The Maryland Terrapins will travel west to face the surging UCLA Bruins on Saturday at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Both teams enter Week 8 heading in opposite directions: UCLA has found new life under interim head coach Tim Skipper, while Maryland hopes to snap a two-game losing streak after a hot start. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM ET on FS1.
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Bruins Finding Their Identity Under Skipper
The Bruins (2-4, 2-1 Big Ten) looked lost after an 0-4 start that led to the firing of head coach DeShaun Foster. Since Skipper took over, UCLA has completely changed its tone, upsetting Penn State 42-37 before rolling past Michigan State 38-13.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava has led the resurgence. After early-season struggles, the young passer has now gone three straight games without an interception and tossed a season-high three touchdowns last week. The Bruins have also balanced their offense behind a resurgent rushing attack, which produced 192 yards and four scores against the Spartans.
Skipper has emphasized consistency and confidence as his players continue to adjust to his leadership. “The standard’s the standard,” he said. “Don’t get bored with success.”
Defensively, UCLA has tightened up against the run and shown improved discipline. The front seven limited Michigan State to 64 rushing yards, and the secondary allowed just one completion longer than 25 yards.
For bettors looking at recent form, UCLA has covered the spread in back-to-back games for the first time this season. Check the latest college football picks for updated betting trends and projections.
Maryland Needs a Spark
The Terrapins (4-2, 1-2 Big Ten) are on a downswing after back-to-back home losses to Washington and Nebraska. Despite forcing three interceptions last week — including a pick-six from Dontay Joyner — Maryland fell 34-31 after surrendering a late touchdown.
Turnovers have been a bright spot for the defense. The Terrapins lead the nation with 12 interceptions, spread across nine defenders, and three of those have gone for touchdowns. Cornerbacks Jalen Huskey and La’khi Roland, along with Joyner, headline one of the most opportunistic secondaries in the country.
However, the offense has faltered recently. Freshman quarterback Malik Washington has thrown 10 touchdowns against just two interceptions, but Maryland’s ground game has been nearly non-existent, averaging under 100 rushing yards per game — one of the lowest marks in FBS.
Coach Mike Locksley remains confident in his group but acknowledged the need for improvement late in games. “A lot of frustration not being able to finish,” he said. “But I know this team is different. We just have to play with more precision.”
Get real-time stats, player news, and injury updates on the college football odds page.
Line Movement and Odds
According to early college football odds, UCLA is projected as a slight home favorite, hovering around -3.5 with a total near 56.5 points. The Bruins’ recent turnaround has prompted increased action on their side, while Maryland’s road struggles — especially against physical defenses — have tempered expectations for an upset.
For expert projections, analytics, and betting trends, refer to the NCAAF expert betting guide.
Matchup Breakdown
UCLA Bruins Outlook
Under Skipper, UCLA has rediscovered rhythm and physicality. The Bruins’ offensive line has improved dramatically, allowing Iamaleava to operate with confidence and open lanes for running backs TJ Harden and Carson Steele.
UCLA’s defense, anchored by linebacker Oluwafemi Oladejo, continues to build confidence. The unit ranks in the top 40 nationally in red-zone defense and has allowed just two touchdowns over the past six quarters.
If the Bruins can sustain their offensive tempo and continue to win the turnover battle, they’ll be in strong position to extend their winning streak.
Maryland Terrapins Outlook
Maryland’s defensive playmakers could be the equalizer. Their ball-hawking secondary has punished inaccurate quarterbacks all season. Still, the Terps must improve their efficiency on offense — they’ve failed to reach 24 points in consecutive games after averaging 38 during their 4-0 start.
Washington’s ability to handle UCLA’s pass rush will be crucial. Without balance on the ground, Maryland risks becoming too predictable, especially on the road.
Locksley’s defense will need to capitalize on any UCLA mistakes early to keep momentum from shifting.
Key Edge
The Bruins’ energy and physicality under Skipper give them the advantage at home. Maryland’s inability to close out games and lack of rushing balance create real problems against a confident, improving UCLA squad.
UCLA’s offense has found rhythm, and Iamaleava’s turnover-free stretch is a good sign against a defense built on takeaways. Expect the Bruins to control time of possession and limit Maryland’s explosive plays.
Betting Trends
UCLA has gone 2-0 against the spread under interim coach Tim Skipper. The Bruins have hit the over in three of their last four games.
Maryland has gone under the total in four of its last six and is 1-4 ATS in its past five conference road games. The Terrapins have also lost six straight games played west of the Mississippi.
Best Bets and Prediction
Both teams have shown volatility, but UCLA’s resurgence feels legitimate. Playing at home, with a confident young quarterback and a rejuvenated defense, gives the Bruins the edge in this matchup.
Projected Score: UCLA 31, Maryland 24
Best Bet: UCLA -3.5
Secondary Lean: Under 56.5
For more analysis, matchup breakdowns, and betting projections, visit ScoresAndStats College Football.
