BYU report card

Offense

BYU took more than a quarter to find itself, and then the offense moved the ball on UCLA almost at will using a two-tight end set. But the Cougars turned the ball over three times, once for a TD.

GRADE B-

Defense

Aside from a second-quarter lapse stopping UCLA's run, and breakdowns and two penalties on the Bruins' game-clinching drive, BYU's defense played well enough to deliver a victory.

GRADE B+

Special teams

While there were no muffs, the field position part of the loss to UCLA proved a critical part of the game. UCLA's average starting field position in the first half was their own 40, while the Cougars' average starting position was their own 18.

GRADE C+

Overall

BYU didn't lose to UCLA because of lack of effort or absence of hard play. Mental breakdowns in emotion led to penalties, and BYU's offensive execution took one quarter to kick into gear — and that proved costly. These mistakes can be overcome.

GRADE B